•w 







IC 8844 






Bureau of Mines Information Circular/1981 




Minerals Environmental In-House 

and Contract Research * 

and Development in Fiscal Year 1981 

By Staff, Division of Minerals Environmental Technology 



I UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 



Information Circular 8844 , 

Minerals Environmental In-House 

and Contract Research 

and Development in Fiscal Year 1981 

By Staff, Division of Minerals Environmental Technology 




UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR 
James G. Watt, Secretary 
BUREAU OF MINES 



# 



Ttfanr 



This publication has been cataloged as follows: 



United States. Bureau of Mines. Division of Minerals 
Environmental Technology. 

Minerals environmental in-house and contract research and 
development in fiscal year 1981. 

(Information circular / United States Department of the Interior, Bu- 
reau of Mines ; 8844) 

1. Mineral industries— Environmental aspects — Research— United 

States. I. Title. II. Series: Information circular (United States. Bu- 
reau of Mines) ; 8844. 



TN295.U4 



;TD195.M5] 622s [338.2] 81-1572 AACR2 



CONTENTS 

Page 

Abstract 1 

Introduction 2 

Program outline 2 

Mine waste control 3 

Water management 3 

In-house projects 4 

Contract projects 6 

Solid waste management 10 

In-house projects 10 

Contract projects 13 

Process waste control 18 

Effluents and emissions control 18 

In-house projects 18 

Contract projects 20 

Accessory minerals control 21 

In-house projects 22 

Contract projects 24 

Mined-land reclamation 24 

Land restoration 25 

In-house projects 25 

Contract projects 28 

Surface stability 36 

In-house projects 36 

Contract projects 38 

Special environmental problems 40 

Noise and vibration control 41 

In-house projects 41 

Contract projects 42 

Environmental systems analysis 43 

In-house projects 43 

Contract projects 45 

Particulate emissions control 47 

In-house projects 47 

Contract projects 48 



MINERALS ENVIRONMENTAL IN-HOUSE AND CONTRACT 

RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT 

IN FISCAL YEAR 1981 

by 
Staff, Division of Minerals Environmental Technology 



ABSTRACT 

This publication summarizes the in-house and contract research and devel- 
opment projects programed for fiscal year 1981 by the Bureau of Mines under 
its Minerals Environmental Technology activity. The document provides a mech- 
anism for interested parties, including potential contractors, to gain insight 
into ongoing and projected work of the Bureau's environmental research 
efforts. 

Research to identify and correct environmental problems associated with 
mining and metallurgical operations has long been an integral part of the 
Bureau's mission. The environmental research and demonstration activities of 
the Bureau were consolidated in 1979 with the formation of the Minerals Envir- 
onmental Technology program, which is directed toward the elimination or 
reduction of environmental problems associated with the extraction and pro- 
cessing of minerals. Among the efforts underway are development of data and 
technology for assessing the potential environmental impact of minerals devel- 
opment, for monitoring minerals extraction operations, and for establishing 
viable reclamation requirements on abandoned mine lands; development and dem- 
onstration of technology for control of environmental disturbances during min- 
erals extraction operations; development and demonstration of land reclamation 
and mine closure techniques to restore or enhance the productive use of mined 
lands; development of engineering techniques that incorporate state-of-the-art 
mining environmental technology in the design and planning of minerals extrac- 
tion operations; development and demonstration of new mining systems that 
greatly reduce or eliminate the adverse environmental impacts of minerals 
extraction; and providing the technologic base for Federal, State, and local 
establishment of enviromental standards for mining operations. Included in 
the minerals-processing-related work are projects to clean mineral-processing 
waters; demonstrate a Bureau process for scrubbing SO from powerplant stack 
gas; recover dissolved minerals from process streams; stabilize discarded 
dusts, slags, and tailings; remove hazardous contaminates from byproduct 
wastes; reduce generation of waste solids; and improve metallurgical process 
engineering to eliminate pollution. Approximately $21 million was appropri- 
ated for this work in fiscal year 1981. 



INTRODUCTION 

This summary document is intended to provide a means for interested par- 
ties to obtain general information about the Bureau's environmental research 
and development programs, and also is meant to serve as a decision-making aid 
for R&D firms contemplating participation in the contract program. 

Contracting in the Bureau of Mines is conducted in strict accordance with 
Federal Procurement Regulations, and solicitation is conducted by formal 
advertisement in the Commerce Business Daily. No additional information will 
be supplied on new contract projects until after the requests for proposal 
(RFP's) are made available and then only in strict accordance with regula- 
tions. This document is not intended to solicit proposals; all unsolicited 
proposals whose contents reflect the objectives of proposed projects listed 
herein will be returned without formal review. 

PROGRAM OUTLINE 

The long-range goal of the Minerals Environmental Technology program is 
to reduce and ultimately eliminate the adverse environmental effects associ- 
ated with mining and mineral-processing activities. The program's major 
objectives are — 

1. To develop data and perform analyses necessary to predict and assess 
the environmental impact of mining and mineral-processing activities. 

2. To provide improved technology that can be integrated into mining and 
process unit operations to prevent or limit the production of substances and 
conditions harmful to the environment. 

3. To develop techniques and methodology to resolve environmental prob- 
lems arising from past mining and processing practices and provide the assess- 
ments and technology necessary to assure optimal land utilization following 
extraction and processing operations. 

The program is conducted by means of both in-house and contract efforts. 
The in-house effort develops technology through projects that are more effi- 
ciently conducted internally and maintains the necessary Bureau expertise to 
develop, monitor, and guide the contract research to assure the most efficient 
overall effort. 

The Minerals Environmental Technology program is organized into five sub- 
programs. Four of these are described in this publication and are research and 
development activities: Mine Waste Control, Process Waste Control, Mined-Land 
Reclamation, and Special Environmental Problems. The fifth subprogram, Mined- 
Land Demonstration, is an applied technology component involving, for the most 
part, site-specific public works activities, and is beyond the scope of this 
paper. 

A note on nomenclature : The reader will occasionally observe the use of 
a series of asterisks (***) following project titles throughout the 



publication. In the case of in-house projects, this indicates that the work 
is new in FY 81. When used with contract titles, it implies that the project 
(a) was in process of procurement at the end of FY 80 or (b) is a candidate 
for competitive procurement in FY 81. 

Each active project is followed, in parentheses, by the abbreviation of 
the Research Center responsible for technical performance. In the case of 
active contract projects, the Center designation is followed by the name of 
the contractor. Abbreviations for Research Centers are as follows: 



ALRC - Albany Research Center 

AVRC - Avondale Research Center 

BCEL - Boulder City Engineering Laboratory 

DRC - Denver Research Center 

PRC - Pittsburgh Research Center 

RERC - Reno Research Center 

RORC - Rolla Research Center 

SLRC - Salt Lake City Research Center 

SPRC - Spokane Research Center 

TCRC - Twin Cities Research Center 

TURC - Tuscaloosa Research Center 

WO - Washington Office 

MINE WASTE CONTROL 

Research performed by the Bureau of Mines in the Mine Waste Control sub- 
program is aimed at providing new and improved technology that can be applied 
to the Nation's coal, metal, and nonmetal industries for the prevention and 
control of harmful effects on the environment. The goals are to define the 
primary environmental problems and to provide new and improved technology that 
can be used by the mining industry for the prevention and/or control of 
adverse environmental impacts associated with waste and water management. 
Specific goals of this subprogram are to — 

1. Develop necessary data and information required to determine the state of 
environmental conditions related to waste and water management. 

2. Develop and demonstrate improved techniques for mine waste management and 
assess their effectiveness. 

3. Make available to industry the technical knowledge needed to select, 
design, and use the most effective control measures developed. 

Water Management 

The Water Management element of the Mine Waste Control subprogram encom- 
passes both the effects of water quality degradation from mining operations 
and the effects of mining on the quantity and flow patterns of regional 
hydro logic regimes. A wide range of research work is performed, ranging from 



preliminary studies and data gathering to the development of control tech- 
niques and water management plans. 

In-House Projects 

1. Characterization of Airborne and Waterborne Toxic Elements *** 

Objective - To identify and quantify toxic components in airborne and 
waterborne effluent streams for the Bureau Research Centers doing research in 
Minerals Environmental Technology. (AVRC) 

2. Determination and Evaluation of Impacts of Surface Mining on 
Hydrologic Systems *** 

Objective : To collect baseline data on the impact of surface mining on 
the hydrologic systems in different mining regions of the country. This will 
result in an assessment of water management needs. (DRC) 

3. Regional Mine Planning for Coal Resource Development While 
Maintaining Hydrologic Integrity *** 

Objective : To identify surface coal mining areas in the Powder River 
Basin and develop plans for mining with a minimum impact to ground and surface 
waters. (DRC) 

4. Development of Criteria for Predicting the Environmental Effects 
of Coal Mining 

Objective : To continue to develop criteria to predict environmental 
problems associated with mining specific sites with a given mining method. The 
work involves assessing hydrological factors including infiltration control 
and effect of mining on aquifers; examining state-of-the-art limitations by 
initiating a data base for projected mine areas; and investigating geophysical 
techniques as potential indicators of areal sulfur variation and acid poten- 
tial of overburden and coal in surface mining. (PRC) 

5. Mine Sealing Studies 

Objective : To examine mine sealing programs and techniques, develop new 
mine sealing technologies, and demonstrate these techniques in practical, 
pilot or full scale settings. (PRC) 

6. Reduction of Water Levels in Anthracite Mines by Surface 
Diversion, Water Harvesting, and/or Stage Drainage 

Objective : To design, develop, and evaluate systems to control surface 
water infiltration into anthracite deep mines and to control flow patterns 
within the same deep mines. The study will identify potential sites for appli- 
cation of surface diversions, water harvesting, and/or stage drainage; develop 
site-specific concepts; and begin baseline monitoring of infiltration- 
discharge relationships at potential sites. (PRC) 



7. Determination of Trace Metals and Priority Pollutants in Coal 
Mine Effluents and Related Waters *** 

Objective . To determine the concentrations of trace metals and priority 
pollutants in coal mine effluents and the background concentrations in related 
waters, such as streams and rainwater. (PRC) 

8. Pre neutralization Oxidation of Iron in Treatment of Acid Mine 
Drainage *** 

Objective : To develop a treatment method that will rapidly oxidize iron 
in acid mine drainage, thereby extending the use of limestone as a neutraliza- 
tion agent. (PRC) 

9. Inhibition of Iron Oxidizing Bacteria as a Means of Reducing 
Acid Mine Drainage 

Objective : To investigate the feasibility of reducing the acidity of 
mine drainage by inhibiting Thiobacillus ferrooxidans in acid producing mines 
and coal refuse piles through the controlled release of anionic surfactants. 
(PRC) 

10. Roof Collapse Procedures To Control Acid Mine Drainage *** 

Objective : To evaluate techniques for the control of acid mine discharge 
by seals created by induced roof collapse. Limiting factors, modes of imple- 
mentation, and areas of potential application will be assessed. Subsequently, 
implementation, plans will be prepared for test sites in West Virginia. (PRC) 

1 1 . Control of Water Pollution by Removing Silicon Carbide From 
Granite Sludges *** 

Objective : To identify areas of environmental concern related to sawing 
operations in the granite industry and initiate research to reduce environ- 
mental degradation by developing techniques to reduce the amount of material 
discharged. The research will locate granite-sawing operations, quantify the 
wastes generated, and sample and characterize the silicon carbide sludges. 
(SLRC) 

12. Preventing Hydrologic Degradation From Phosphate Mining in 
North Carolina *** 

Objective : To determine the environmental effects of extensive pumping 
on the Castle Hayne aquifer (North Carolina) during phosphate mining. Other 
determinations include surface effects on land, restoring mined land, and salt 
water encroachment. Also, research will develop and/or recommend mitigative 
measures to minimize the problems associated with the pumping. (TCRC) 



Contract Projects 

1 . Monitoring and Modeling of Shallow Ground Water Systems in the 
Powder River Basin 

Objective : To assess and predict the impacts that surface coal mining 
will have on the regional shallow ground water systems in the basin. Preli- 
minary results indicate that the regional impacts of surface mining on water 
resources can best be studied by developing a more detailed subregional model. 
The present computer model of shallow ground water covers the entire struc- 
tural Powder River Basin and uses finite-difference nodes of 38.6 square 
miles. At this scale, significant impacts are confined to a few nodes in the 
model. Thus, present work has been geared to developing this subregional 
model. (DRC/Hittraan Associates) 

2. Developing of Dewatering Systems for Surface Coal Mines in the 
Interior Province 

Objective : To develop dewatering methods for possible use in surface 
coal mines in the Interior Province. Advantages and disadvantages of coal 
dewatering or ground water control system relevant to surface coal mines in 
all U.S. coal provinces are discussed. (DRC/Woodward-Clyde) 

3. Preparation and Compilation of Geological and Hydrological Information 
of the Oil Shale Deposits of the Piceance Creek Basin 

Objective : To monitor the surface water runoff in Horse Draw for the 
purpose of determining the degradation in water quality, if any, attrib- 
utable to the mining environmental research facility activities. (DRC/U.S. 
Geological Survey) 

4. Study of the Hydrology and Water Quality of Watersheds Subjected 
To Surface Mining 

Objective: To determine the hydrologic and water quality effects of sur- 
face mining. The study is in its fourth year. Two watersheds have been mined 
and reclaimed; A third watershed is expected to be mined this year. Erosion 
plots will go into operation next spring. (DRC/Ohio Agricultural R&D Center 
and the U.S. Department of Agriculture) 

5. Determine the Impact of Longwall Mining on the Hydrologic 
Balance *** 

Objective: To determine the effects of longwall mining on local aquifers 
and to determine impacts on water quantity and quality. 

6. Outcrop Barrier Design for Appalachian Coal Mines 

Objective: To provide design criteria for use in planning and designing 
outcrop barriers that will minimize barrier failures and mine drainage prob- 
lems. Research will involve the design of outcrop barrier widths, potential 



problems associated with impounding large volumes of water in an abandoned 
bituminous coal mine, outcrop grouting, and measures necessary to prevent 
seepage through a coal barrier. (PRC/ Dames and Moore) 

7. Water Handling Procedures for Reducing Acid Formation in 
Underground Mines 

Objective : To identify and describe the most effective and economic 
methods for controlling drainage in underground coal mines in order to mini- 
mize the formation of acid and iron pollutants and provide mine drainage 
guidelines to mine operators in the Appalachian coal mining region. (PRC/ 
Skelly and Loy) 

8. Treatment of Mine Drainage From Abandoned Mines by Biological Iron 
Oxidation and Limestone Neutralization *** 

Objective : To develop a sphagnum bog in an already-existing acid water 
pond; to construct a limestone rubble pile downstream; and to monitor water 
flow and quality upstream and downstream of the bog and of the limestone pile. 
It has been shown that dissolved iron is removed naturally from acid mine 
drainage by ion exchange and precipitation (as ferric hydroxide and iron sul- 
fide) after flowing through a sphagnum moss bog. Removal of the iron before 
neutralization will eliminate armoring of limestone, thus resulting in low- 
maintenance neutralization. Although this method would be limited to rela- 
tively low-flow situations, its low cost would allow its use in drainage from 
many abandoned mines and gob piles. 

9. Impact of Mining on Ground Water in the Globe-Miami Copper Mining 
District 

Objective : To assess the effects of mining on the ground water quality, 
quantity, movement, and availability in the Globe-Miami copper mining dis- 
trict. A determination shall be made of the impact due to various mining 
techniques and practices. The results will be used to determine the serious- 
ness of the problems and the necessary corrective actions. Results from the 
study will lead directly into Bureau R&D for remedial action to unacceptable 
environmental impacts. (SPRC/Central Arizona Association of Governments) 

10. Monitoring of Ground Water in the Tucson Copper Mining District *** 

Objective : To monitor and analyze ground water data in the Tucson copper 
mining district, and develop a further basis for water management decisions. 
Parameters to be monitored shall include water quality, quantity, and direc- 
tion of flow. The analysis will involve the description of the vadose zone, 
unsaturated flow, ion absorption, and containment transport for the past, 
present, and future. 

1 1. Predicting Mine Water Inflows and Impact on District Hydrology 

Objective : To develop and validate method(s) for predicting mine water 
inflow by improving interpretation of flow system parameters, and a method for 



determining surface and ground water depletion relative to mine water inflow. 
(SPRC/Williams , Robinette and Associates) 

12. Development of Environmentally Attractive Leachants 

Objective: To determine the optimum constituents from several candidates 
for leachants used in extracting uranium from sandstone uranium ores. It is 
anticipated that the new leachant will facilitate the restoration of the 
ground water quality after leaching. (TCRC/ University of Texas) 

13 . Impact of Proposed Lignite Mining in West Tennessee 

Objective : To investigate the feasibility of raining western Tennessee 
lignite with respect to ground water, soil resources, and slope stability in 
the area. The hydrologic system shall be investigated to anticipate potential 
environmental problems that might crop up as a result of future lignite mining 
in the area. The base-line water resources data shall be organized into a 
computer data retrieval system. From this, predictions can be made; and then 
during and after mining, assessments can be made of the impact on water 
resources in the study area. (TCRC/Vanderbilt University) 

14. Water Supply and Pollution Problems Associated With the Mesabi 
Range Iron Ore Mining Industry 

Objective : To examine current iron range water problems. Areas of major 
environmental concern are being identified, and future research shall be 
recommended. The water requirements, use, and disposal for iron mining are 
being surveyed. (TCRC/Uintex) 

1 5. Monitoring of the Impact on Ground Water Hydrology of Borehole 
Mining of Phosphate Ores 

Objective : The U.S. Geological Survey is monitoring the quantity and 
quality of the ground water in the vicinity of the phosphate mining opera- 
tions. The monitoring is taking place in the Floridian aquifer below the 
level of the mining operation, in the Hawthorne Formation at the level of the 
phosphate bed, and in aquifers above the level of the mining operations. A 
data report shall be submitted stating the hydrological changes, if any, that 
occur as a result of the borehole phosphate mining. (TCRC/U.S. Geological 
Survey) 

16. Biological Oxidation of Iron by Thiobacillus Ferrooxidans in a 
Sequencing Batch Reactor 

Objective : To investigate the biological oxidation of ferrous iron by 
Thiobacillus ferrooxidans in the presence of particulate settling aids under 
conditions representative of acidic mine waters and to develop a mathematical 
model of the process. (TCRC/Notre Dame University) 



17. Development of a Dewatering System for Controlling Fracture- 
Dominated Inflow for Acid Mine Drainage Abatement 

Objective : To design and field-test a pilot-scale fracture dewatering 
system for acid mine drainage abatement. Acid mine drainage (AMD) from coal 
mines is a major pollutant of streams and rivers. Treatment of mine drainage 
has thus far been the principal means of combating this degradation of surface 
water, while preventive control of AMD is a promising but largely untested 
alternative. The method of dewatering from within the mine has several tech- 
nical and environmental advantages over effluent treatment. Control of frac- 
ture inflow in wet mines can reduce the volume of mine drainage requiring 
treatment by 60 percent with a resultant decrease in the capacity requirements 
of the water treatment plant. (TCRC/Skelly and Loy) 

18. Investigation of the Mechanics of Mine Acid Formation in Underground 
Coal Mine Drainage 

Objective : To investigate through the use of laboratory experiments the 
extent of biological catalysis of pyrite weathering using fresh mine face sam- 
ples and under conditions simulating mine conditions. Sufficient mines and 
mine samples were examined to provide data that were generalized for the total 
acid-producing coal mine population in the Appalachian States. Recommenda- 
tions were made on possible methods to inhibit the oxidation of pyrites. 
(TCRC/ECO-Control, Inc.) 

1 9. Analysis of Ground Water Criteria and Recent Restoration Attempts 
After In Situ Uranium Leaching 

Objective : To present, compile, and compare the criteria for ground 
water restoration and the effectiveness and costs of the methods employed, to 
develop empirical expressions, to predict the amount of aquifer flushing 
required, and to improve predictions of the cost of restoration. (TCRC/ 
Resource Engineering and Development) 

20. Effects of Coal Mine Subsidence on Ground Water Aquifers in 
Northern Appalachia 

Objective : To provide a comprehensive hydrogeologic record of the 
changes in the ground water systems, above and adjacent to a room-and-pillar 
section and also above and adjacent to an active longwall section as subsi- 
dence occurs. (PRC/Science Management Engineering) 

21 . Minimization of Ground Water Contamination in Surface Mine Backfill 

Objective : To determine the thickness of clay seals and spoil density 
requirements and to determine how effective they are in preventing acid mine 
drainage. (SPRC/Penn State University) 



10 



22. Ground Water Resources in Relation To Surface Mining for Coal 

Objective : To assess the impacts of surface mining on ground water and 
place these impacts in context with other types of disturbances to ground 
water resources. Also to determine the state of the art Ln control 
technology. (SPRC/National Academy of Sciences) 

23. Control of Water Pollution From Surface Mining Operations 

Objective : To identify ground and surface water management and control 
problems related to surface mining in the United States where water pollution 
is a problem. Conceptual water management plans shall be developed for such 
problems as aquifer disturbance, pit dewatering or mine drainage, and site 
abandonment. (SPRC/Wapora) 

Solid Waste Management 

The Solid Waste Management element of the Mine Waste Control subprogram 
addresses a wide spectrum of research including baseline studies, inventories, 
material property characterization, waste handling and placement methods, sys- 
tems design, embankment stability, waste utilization, and long-term environ- 
mental stability. Existing and proposed standards resulting from the Surface 
Mining Control and Reclamation Act and the Resource Conservation and Recovery 
Act have made mine waste management one of industry's primary concerns in the 
environmental area. Although some technical basis now exists for compliance 
with legal requirements, additional research is needed in all areas of surface 
and underground waste disposal, including alternative means of waste utiliza- 
tion, so that the domestic industry can remain viable in the face of increas- 
ingly restrictive performance standards. 

In-House Projects 

1 . Control of Hazardous Alkalies From Cement Kiln Dust *** 

Objective : To eliminate an environmental problem in cement production 
from the alkali and the alkali-free materials. Presently, 6 to 10 million 
tons per year of kiln dust is discarded to dumps or land fills, because 
alkali renders the dust unsuitable for cement. The discarded dust is a 
hazardous waste because the alkali can leach out and contaminate ground 
water. (ALRC) 

2. Characterization of Potential Manganese Nodule Processing Rejects *** 

Objective : To verify, improve, and update the information available on 
manganese nodules, to clarify some of the terminology used in identification 
and characterization of nodules and their processing reject materials, and 
to prepare representative manganese nodule reject materials for future study. 
The source of funds for this project is via Interagency Agreement with the 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (AVRC) 



11 



3. Tailings Pond Research and Testing Facility 

Objective: To continue the pond liner testing program on samples 
installed in industrial ponds. Samples will be removed and tested for proper- 
ties such as permeability and tear strength. Several new liners will be 
installed in operating ponds. Also, dewatering techniques such as sand bed 
drainage and capillary assisted evaporation will be tested. (BCEL) 

4. Controlled Burnout of Coal Waste Bank Fires at the Moss No. 1 Plant 

Objective : To assist in technology transfer of the concept of controlled 
burnout of a fire in a coal waste bank utilizing Bureau of Mines developed 
in situ combustion methodology. (PRC) 

5. Controlled Burnout of Fire at Abandoned Coal Mines - Calamity Hollow 

Objective : To demonstrate the concept of controlled burnout of fire in 
an abandoned coal mine by utilizing Bureau of Mines methodology for in situ 
combustion to deplete the fuel responsible for the fire in an environmentally 
sound manner and with utilization of the heat produced. (PRC) 

6. R&D Support for Burnout Control of Fires on Abandoned Coal Mine Lands 

Objective : To develop analytic models for controlled burnout, improve 
methods of high temperature borehole construction and instrumentation for mon- 
itoring burnout control, and evaluate burnout control for coal wastes. The 
latter two items will involve activities in the Bureau's surface trench burn 
facility. (PRC) 

7. Abating Pollution From Lead Tailings Piles in Southeast Missouri *** 

Objective : To examine lead mine tailings ponds in the southeast Missouri 
lead belt to characterize the nature and magnitude of compositional and physi- 
cal makeup of contaminating constituents and to assess potential methods of 
rendering these tailings environmentally safe to regional surface and ground 
water systems. (RORC) 

8. Pollutant Identification in Auto Shredder Offal Material *** 

Objective : To select from a number of shredders samples of fluff and 
other residues that are commonly disposed of in landfills throughout the coun- 
try. Samples will be subjected to chemical analysis and handpicking to deter- 
mine their chemical and physical makeup. Samples will also be leached 
according to proposed EPA standards and the leachate analyzed to determine its 
composition. (SLRC) 

9. Physical and Chemical Characteristics of Manganese Nodule Processing 
Wastes 

Objective : To obtain samples of manganese process waste from the Avon- 
dale Research Center. Laboratory tests will be performed on these wastes to 



12 



determine eight materials properties: Composition - mineral and chemical, 
permeability, settling rate, size distribution, specific gravity, density, 
electrical conductivity, and strength. (SPRC) 

10. Improved Hydraulic Method for Coal Waste Disposal 

Objective : To provide an improved method of waste disposal by providing 
economical slurry transport and a stable blended waste. Present methods of 
handling coal refuse include sludge disposal ponds for fine coal refuse (which 
are hazardous because of the hydraulic properties of the material) and coarse 
waste dumps (which tend to ignite because of porous nature of the embank- 
ments). Recently, some coal-cleaning plants have installed dewatering 
devices for the fine refuse and combine the coarse and dewatered sludge prior 
to disposal. The procedure is extremely expensive, produces a "bulked" mater- 
ial disposal (which has poor long-term stability characteristics), and pre- 
sents materials-handling problems. (SPRC) 

1 1 . Development and Evaluation of Waste Disposal Plans and Techniques 

Objective : To identify major waste management problems through meetings 
with industry representatives, maintain industry contacts, and perform back- 
ground and preliminary research in the development of new research projects. 
(SPRC) 

12. Waste Water Monitoring Techniques for Uranium Tailings 

Objective : Seepage from uranium tailings has been a quite controversial 
subject between regulating agencies and industry. Certain proposed regula- 
tions could have a drastic effect on the economics of uranium mining. Many 
uncertainties are due to the many unknowns in water quality, quantity, and 
movement in the disposal vicinity. This effort is to simplify and improve 
data-gathering techniques to improve the state of the art and provide a basis 
on which realistic regulations may be promulgated. In this case the benefit 
would apply to industry as well as to applicable regulatory agencies. (SPRC) 

13. Designs of Slime-Sealed Impoundments To Prevent Ground Water 
Contamination 

Objective : To use mill tailings and/or natural soil rather than fabric 
liners to reduce seepage in tailings impoundments. Laboratory permeability 
testing of mill tailings and natural soil within a tailings area in combina- 
tion with additives and compaction techniques will determine potential methods 
for reducing the seepage beneath tailings ponds. These results will then be 
transferred to field tests where the actual seepage for a given area is 
measured. (SPRC) 

14. Survey Foundry Wastes in Southeastern United States To Identify 
Environmental Hazards *** 

Objective : To initiate a systematic program to identify the various 
types of waste materials generated by foundries in the Southeast, to determine 



13 



whether they currently or potentially pose environmental hazards, and to 
recommend research to alleviate any problems. (TURC) 

1 5. Assessment of Environmental Impacts Associated With Byproduct 
Gypsum Stacks From Florida Phosphates 

Objective : To determine the extent and nature of radiation-related and 
other environmental problems associated with the disposal and subsequent 
leaching of byproduct gypsum, and recommend and initiate research to alleviate 
the problem. (TURC) 

16. Borehole Mining Cavities for Disposal of Radioactive Mine Wastes 

Objective : To investigate aspects of rock mechanics, environmental 
engineering, safety engineering, economics, and nuclear energy regulation rel- 
ative to adaptation to the Bureau borehole mining technology to the construc- 
tion of storage cavities for solid wastes generated in uranium in situ 
leaching operations. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1. Containment Pond Liner Materials Testing *** 

Objective : To determine performance of typical liner materials under 
actual industrial service. Liners shall be installed in operating ponds and 
tested for material properties such as permeability and tear strength at vari- 
ous time intervals. 

2. Demonstration and Evaluation of Underground Disposal of Coal-Mining 
Wastes 

Objective : To conduct a 1-year demonstration of a system(s) of under- 
ground disposal of coal-mining wastes in an active underground coal mine. The 
project final report shall include an assessment of the technical problems and 
economics of implementation of a total system of underground disposal of coal- 
mining waste in an active underground coal mine. (DRC/GEX Colorado and 
Foster-Miller) 

3. Design and Engineering of a Burnout Control System for a Coal Waste 
Bank *** 

Objective : To attempt the controlled acceleration of a fire by air 
injection so that complete fuel burnout is accomplished in a time period that 
is short compared with the many decades that such fires could propagate if 
left unattended. Injection of air into and removal of combustion products 
from the waste bank would be accomplished by a surface exhaust ventilation 
system operating through boreholes extending into the banks. 



14 



4. Fly Ash and Byproduct Gypsum as Mine Backfilling *** 

Objective : To examine lead mine tailings piles in the southeast Missouri 
lead belt to characterize the nature and magnitude of compositional and phys- 
ical makeup of contaminating constituents and to assess potential methods of 
rendering these tailings environmentally safe to area surface and ground water 
systems. Characterization of selected lead tailings piles shall be made 
through comprehensive chemical and physical analyses. Samples shall be taken 
to determine where and to what degree segregation and distribution have 
occurred in the piles. Research shall be supplemented with initiation of an 
evaluation to delineate potential extraction processes for removal of the haz- 
ardous and valuable constituents from the tailings piles. Initial emphasis 
shall be placed on the large tailings pile at Desloge, Mo., because of the 
critical environmental condition (tailings runoff Into the Big River) that now 
exists. There are approximately a dozen tailings piles in this southeast Mis- 
souri area, each containing approximately 10 to 50 million tons of material. 

5. Developing a Slurry Fill for Modified In Situ Oil Shale Mining 

Objective : To develop an underground slurry filling system that will 
minimize surface and underground environmental disturbance. Specifically, to 
render in situ shale rubble virtually impermeable and minimize contamination 
of the ground water and its aquifers, to bind the spent shale together in a 
coherent mass sufficiently strong to resist surface subsidence and eliminate 
the potential for differential settlements of the surface, and to dispose of 
the maximum amount of surface retorted shale material as the major constituent 
of the fill, thereby minimizing or eliminating disposal of spent shale on the 
surface. (SPRC/Rio Blanco Oil Shale Co.) 



6. Development of Systematic Waste Disposal Plans 

Objective : To develop a set of guidelines for the mining industry that 
provides rationale for the development of systematic waste disposal plans. 
The resulting document (manual) will be suitable for use by Federal and State 
personnel, mine operators and planners, and design professionals. Emphasis 
shall be placed on the impact of a disposed waste on all aspects of the envir- 
onment, including, but not limited to, future land use and economic factors, 
long-term stability, hydrology effects, potential contamination of water sup- 
plies, and emanation of hazardous substances. Impact of existing and proposed 
State and Federal regulations on the disposal of waste shall be emphasized as 
well. (SPRC/Goodson and Associates) 

7. Mine Waste Location by Satellite Imagery 

Objective : To investigate the potential for using satellite (Landsat) 
data for detecting coal, metal, and nonmetal waste and tailings disposal 
sites. The contractor shall determine if the band-ratio method of preproces- 
sing the Landsat multispectral data before classification can be used to 
detect and identify waste embankments. (SPRC/Science Systems and Application, 
Inc.) 



15 



8. Engineering Property Changes and Environmental Effects on Coal 
Mine Waste Due to Slaking 

Objective : To determine the changes in physical properties and chemical 
environmental impact potential of coal mine waste dumps and embankments as a 
function of age, and to evaluate the effects of slaking on the stability of 
waste piles and recommend techniques to control the detrimental changes. 
(SPRC/W. A. Wahler) 

9. Conceptual Designs for Retaining Structures for Open Pit Backfilling 

Objective : To develop conceptual designs of retaining structures for 
constructing backfill areas to dispose of wastes within open pits. Milling, 
smelter, and overburden wastes shall be considered. Detailed conceptual 
designs shall be developed for two operating open pit mines. (SPRC/Skilling, 
Helle, Christiansen and Robertson) 

10. State-of-the-Art Environmental Assessment of Onshore Disposal of 

Manganese Nodule Rejects 

Objective : To identify all reasonable state-of-the-art and emerging 
techniques for the onshore disposal of various types of manganese nodule 
rejects and to develop site-selection design criteria and associated signifi- 
cant environmental and land use effects for those techniques, sites, and types 
of rejects identified. (SPRC/Rogers, Golden, and Halpern) 

1 1 . Evaluation of Lixiviation of Mine Wastes 

Objective : To determine which types of, and to what extent, coal wastes 
contaminate ground water through leaching of acid-forming or toxic-forming 
materials. The completion of this program shall involve field sampling to 
collect solid wastes samples and a laboratory study to evaluate the extent to 
which components of these wastes are leached by rainwater. (SPRC/Calspan) 

12. Field Test for Environmental Disposal of Mill Tailings in Surface 
Backfill 

Objective : To perform a small-scale field test to dispose of mill tail- 
ings along the Coeur d'Alene River valley while preventing seepage through the 
waste and into the water system and to conduct geotechnical, hydrologic, and 
vegetative experiments at the site and evaluate feasibility of full-scale 
implementation. (SPRC/Greater Shoshone County) 

13. Investigations of the Flow Characteristics of Mine Tailings 

Objective : To determine the flow characteristics of liquefied mine tail- 
ings, and the probable extent of travel when a mass of mine tailings flows and 
liquefies. Case studies of mass flow failures of mine waste embankments shall 
be back-analyzed. (SPRC/UniversLty of California) 



16 



14. Designs for an Underground Disposal System for Active Uranium Mines *** 

Objective : To define the backfilling constraints, including environmen- 
tal constraints, stability constraints, health and safety constraints, and 
regulatory constraints, and then to develop a number of initial conceptual 
designs based on the work performed in related contracts and other pertinent 
information. In the final phase, the contractor shall develop a detailed 
design at a specific site. 

15. Disposal of Gold Dredge Tailings *** 

Objective : To develop and demonstrate methods to partially level the 
ridges of coarse gravel left by the dredge waste conveyor and pump the finer 
gravel, sand, and soil onto the smoothed area. This would eliminate ridges of 
sterile, washed, coarse gravel that exist from present methods of operation 
and place the topsoil on the surface in a usable condition. 

16. Inventory of Waste Embankments, Surface and Underground Openings 

Objective : To compile an inventory of mine waste embankments, forming a 
data base for improving waste management and waste disposal techniques in the 
metal and nonmetal mining industry. (SPRC /Mountain States R&D) 

17. Use of a Finite Element Code for Analysis of Seepage From Tailings 
Ponds *** 

Objective : To develop and demonstrate a computer code capable of analyz- 
ing seepage from tailings ponds under partially saturated conditions in the 
foundation soil. Analytical results obtained from the program shall be com- 
pared with field measurements for verification of output data. 

18. Measurement of Seepage Beneath Tailings Ponds 

Objective : To apply the results of the in-house project "Design of 
Slime-Sealed Impoundments To Prevent Ground Water Contamination" to field con- 
ditions where seepage can be accurately measured to determine the best possi- 
ble method for sealing the bottom of the tailings pond to prevent seepage. 
Five separate areas are being prepared to test different combinations of natu- 
ral soil-tailings and compaction to achieve the desired results. 
(SPRC/ASARCO) 

19. Removing Heavy Metal From Runoff Water Draining Lean Copper-Nickel 
Ore Stockpiles 

Objective : To develop techniques for removing heavy metal pollutants 
from runoff draining copper-nickel lean ore and waste stockpiles. The 
development of copper-nickel resources in northeast Minnesota depends upon the 
selection of an adequate abatement program to control heavy metal leaching 
from exposed waste rock and lean ore piles. The low grade of the ore deposit 
makes Lt necessary to Find an inexpensive control system which will allow the 



17 



mining to be economically feasible. (TCRC /Minnesota Department of Natural 
Resources) 

20. Grouting Methods To Prevent Ground Water Contamination From Dump and 
In Situ Leaching *** 

Objective : To evaluate the technical and economic feasibility of using a 
blasted presplit fracture plane, injected with grout, to form a grout curtain 
to contain leach solutions in conjunction with dump and in situ leaching 
operations. 

21 . Sample Mining and Milling Wastes in the Southeastern United States To 
Identify Environmental Hazards *** 

Objective : To initiate a systematic program to identify the various 
types of waste materials generated by foundries in the Southeastern United 
States, determine whether they currently or potentially pose environmental 
hazards, and recommend future research to mitigate problem areas. Foundry 
waste may contain environmentally hazardous substances that need to be dis- 
posed of in an environmentally sound manner. Some wastes may be treated and 
returned to the foundry for reuse, thereby eliminating part of the disposal 
problem. The data obtained by this research are essential to establishing 
information concerning these wastes and their potential for environmental 
degradation. The technology developed from tills research will allow the 
foundry Industry to meet EPA regulations pertaining to mineral waste 
discharges. 

22. Assessment of Ground and Surface Water Effects Around Coal and 
Mineral Storage Areas 

Objective : To survey the extent to which storage piles of coal and min- 
erals release toxic ions or other significant organic pollutants to ground or 
surface waters and to assess pollution types and levels and then develop raiti- 
gative measures for each mineral commodity for improved control of runoff. 
(TCRC/Hittman Associates) 

23. Detection of Lixiviant Excursions With Geophysical Resistance 
Measurements During In Situ Leaching 

Objective : To develop, test, and demonstrate a geophysical resistance 
measuring system that can reliably detect the excursion of a lixiviant having 
a resistivity half that of the ground water it replaces when the lixiviant has 
migrated halfway from an injection well to a monitor well at a depth of at 
least 500 feet. (TCRC/Westlnghouse Electric Inc.) 

24. Evaluation of Best Management Practice for Mining Solid Waste 

Objective : To determine best management practices for mine waste dis- 
posal in the areas of ore (copper, iron, lead, nickel, molybdenum, and zinc), 
phosphates, and uranium by utilizing the results of an extensive monitoring 



18 



program for ground and surface water and air quality. (WO/Pedco Environmental 
Inc.) 

PROCESS WASTE CONTROL 

This subprogram's overall goal is to provide the expeditious advances in 
technology needed to alleviate the environmental problems caused by the pro- 
cessing of minerals. Specific goals of this subprogram are to — 

1. Quantify environmental problems relating to the processing of 
minererals. 

2. Develop and evaluate technology for minimizing release of environ- 
mental contaminants and their associated effects. 

3. Demonstrate new technology on a scale of sufficient magnitude to 
assess its effectiveness. 

4. Disseminate technical knowledge for the use of the minerals industry 
and regulatory authorities. 

Effluents and Emissions Control 

This element's overall goal is to provide new and improved technology for 
the treatment of effluents and emissions that result from the processing of 
minerals. Specific goals of this element are to — 

1. Develop procedures for the removal and recovery of sulfur dioxide 
and other volatiles from process emissions. 

2. Develop procedures for the treatment of process waters to remove and 
recover soluble toxic elements and compounds and to recycle the process 
water. 

3. Develop procedures for the removal of particulates from slimes and 
suspensions, to recycle the released water, and to utilize the dewatered sol- 
ids for land reclamation. 

4. Transfer this technology to the industry through field demonstra- 
tions, films, publications, patents, and other appropriate means. 

In-House Projects 

1. Cleanup and Recycle Technology for Mine and Mill Waters 

Objective : To devise process water treatments that permit water reuse or 
safe discharge and recover minerals and metals contained in the waters. 
(SLRC) 



19 



2. Environmental Control of Mineral-Processing Reagents 

Objective : To determine the fate of mineral-processing reagents and 
their decomposition products and to evaluate their effect on mineral- 
processing systems and on environmental quality. (SLRC) 

3. Citrate Process: Chemistry and Engineering 

Objective : To evaluate the effectiveness of changes in the citrate pro- 
cess for scrubbing sulfur dioxide from gas streams. Investigations of the 
stream stripping of sulfur dioxide from citrate solutions at elevated 
temperatures and pressures will be completed. Pilot plant support for the 
demonstration plant will be provided. (SLRC) 

4. Citrate Process: Stack-Gas SO Scrubbing 

Objective : To test and evaluate a prototype plant to demonstrate the 
Bureau's citrate process for removing sulfur dioxide from stack gases of pow- 
erplants. To monitor the performance testing and demonstration operation of 
the new facility at St. Joe Minerals Corp. in Monaca, Pa., and Radian Corp.'s 
research contract for testing and evaluation of the facility. Laboratory 
backup for the demonstration project will be provided. (SLRC) 

5. Modification of Mineral Processing Wastes 

Objective : To devise technology to render mineral-processing solid 
wastes satisfactory for safe discard by removal and, where possible, recovery 
of toxic substances contained in the wastes. A scheme for the removal and 
recovery of arsenic and metal values from arsenical lead and copper smelter 
flue dusts is being developed. The process will be tested in a 1-pound-per- 
hour process investigation unit. (SLRC) 

6. Evaluating Desliming Techniques 

Objective : To evaluate mechanical desliming techniques for the metal and 
nonmetal minerals processing industry. (SPRC) 

7. Water Recovery From Phosphate Clay Slimes 

Objective : To develop and evaluate new flocculating agents and dewater- 
ing devices and to compare the polyethylene oxide dewatering technique with 
other methods. Emphasis will be placed on process improvement utilizing a 
field test unit on site at White Springs, Fla. The suitability of the water 
released for reuse will be investigated. The suitability of the dewatered 
solids for permanent land reclamation will be assessed. (TURC) 

8. Consolidation of Mineral Wastes To Eliminate Potential Environmental 
Problems 

Objective : To develop procedures for the dewatering of nonphosphate 
mineral-processing wastes. Available and new flocculents will be evaluated 



20 



for the consolidation of slimes such as are obtained from the processing of 
potash, talc, and titanium dioxide and from drilling mud and metal hydroxide 
sludges. (TURC) 

9. Dewatering and Detoxication Technology 

Objective : To monitor contracts J0100119, "Use of a Baffled Rotating 
Tubular Reactor in the Flocculation Dewatering of Florida Phosphatic Clay 
Waste" (University of Nevada); J0199150, "Microbial Flocculation of Phosphate 
and Potash Slimes" (New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology); and 
J0100127, "Detoxication of Arsenic and Characterization of Organic Compounds 
Produced by Roasting of Phosphates" (Spelman College). (TURC) 

10. Removal of Particulates and Slimes From Mineral Processing Water 

Objective : To devise new methods for treating mineral-processing waters 
and effluents by using oppositely charged solids as contact filters for remov- 
ing suspended particulates, by substituting magnesium oxide for lime in 
removing dissolved heavy metals, and by developing a procedure to detoxify 
cyanide-containing solutions by converting cyanide to particulate forms. 
(TCRC) 

11. Treatment of Solvent Extraction Emulsions 

Objective : To develop techniques to promptly break refractory solvent 
extraction emulsions, thereby freeing reagents for recycle, freeing dissolved 
values for recovery, and alleviating the problem of containment and disposal 
of a hazardous waste. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1 . Effect of Thiobacillus Ferroxidans on the Weathering of Tailings 
Objective : To determine the effect of bacteria on the weathering of 

chalcopyrite or lead-zinc leach tailings with emphasis on tailings generated 
by ferric chloride or chlorine-oxygen leaching. (RERC/University of Nevada- 
Reno) 

2. Demonstration of the Citrate Process SO2 Removal System 

Objective : To design, construct, and operate for a demonstration year, a 
plant for the removal of S0 2 from stack gases of the 50-megawatt George F. 
Weaton powerplant at Monaca, Pa. Design capacity is 156,000 scfra of 0.2 
volume-percent S0 2 yielding 16 tons of sulfur per day. (SLRC/St. Joe Minerals 
Corp.) 

3. Testing and Evaluation of Citrate Process Demonstrations 

Objective : To provide independent testing and evaluation of the citrate 
process demonstration plant (item 2, above) to judge economic viability of the 
process. (SLRC/Radian Corp.) 



21 



4. Interaction of Acid Mine Water and Concentrator Waste 

Objective : To improve waste water treatment by modeling the mixing of 
alkaline copper concentrator tailings slurry with concentrator waste water to 
precipitate soluble metals from these waste streams. (SLRC /Montana College of 
Mineral Science and Technology) 

5. Use of a Baffled Rotating Reactor in the Flocculation Dewatering of 
Florida Clay Wastes *** 

Objective : To make an engineering study of the use of baffled tubular 
reactors for mixing flocculant and slimes and simultaneous water removal. 
Critical parameters shall be measured for the use of a single piece of rotary 
equipment for both mixing and water removal. 

6. Detoxication of Arsenic and Characterization of Organic Compounds 
Produced by the Roasting of Phosphates 

Objective : To identify enzyme systems capable of detoxifying arsenic by 
searching liver tissue and intestinal flora and to identify and assess the 
toxicity of organic compounds driven off during the roasting of North Carolina 
phosphate ore. (TURC/Spelman College) 

7. Microbiological Flocculation of Phosphate and Potash Slimes 

Objective : To isolate organisms capable of flocculating slimes and to 
develop an economic nutrient source for these organisms. (TURC/New Mexico 
Institute of Mining and Technology) 

Accessory Minerals Control 

The overall goal of this element is to develop modifications to minerals 
treatment processes in order to control the fate of accessory minerals during 
processing so that they may be recovered or disposed of safely. Specific 
goals of this element are to — 

1. Develop procedures for determining the fate of and the partitioning 
of accessory elements and compounds during mineral processing. 

2. Develop and test models of major metallurgical processes and use 
them to evaluate the fate of accessory elements. 

3. Develop and test process modifications to direct accessory elements 
during metallurgical processing. 

4. Transfer this technology to the industry through field demonstra- 
tions, publications, patents, and other appropriate means. 



22 

In-House Projects 

1. Minerals Recovery From Copper-Smelting Slags 

Objective : To determine the distribution of minor, potentially toxic, 
elements such as arsenic, antimony, bismuth, selenium, and tellurium between 
matte and slag as a function of slag composition and operating conditions and 
recommend methods for concentrating these elements in the slag for possible 
recovery. Both conventional, and flash smelting will be explored. (ALRC) 

2. Trace Analysis and Molecular Species Determination of Accessory Elements 

Objective : To identify and characterize accessory compounds which are 
volatilized during pyrometallurgical operations. Knudsen cell and mass spec- 
trometer measurements will be made to identify volatile-sulfur-containing 
species of arsenic, antimony, and bismuth. (ALRC) 

3. Recovery and Control of Accessory Minerals in the Processing of 
Titanium and Zirconium Ores 

Objective : To characterize, recover, and control accessory minerals in 
residues generated by industrial processing of titanium- and zirconium-bearing 
materials. (ALRC) 

4. Accessory Minerals Distribution in Lead Smelting *** 

Objective : To determine the distribution of As, Cd, Ti, In, Se, and Sb 
between lead bullion and slag as a function of slag composition and 
temperature. (ALRC) 

5. Thermodynamic Data for Accessory Mineral Control *** 

Objective : To provide thermodynamic data on hazardous accessory minerals 
and compounds. Thermodynamic data will be critically evaluated, estimated, and 
compiled for arsenic-sulfur compounds. (ALRC) 

6. Pyrometallurgical Technology 

Objective : To monitor contract J0295956, "The Concentration of Inpurity 
Elements From Copper Reverberatory Slags" and related contract projects. 
(ALRC ) 

7. Characterization of Accessory Minerals 

Objective : To establish the nature and occurrence of accessory minerals 
and elements in process wastes and feeds. Investigations are being carried out 
on cement kiln dust and materials bearing uranium, fluoride, and radium from 
phosphate operations. (AVRC) 



23 



8. Application of Inorganic Ion Exchangers to Metallurgy 

Objective : To develop methods for using inorganic ion exchangers for 
removing toxic elements and recovering valuable accessory elements from min- 
eral processing waters. (RERC) 

9. Recovery of Accessory Minerals in Hydrometallurgical Processes 

Objective : To determine the distribution of accessory elements during 
hydrometallurgical processing steps and to enhance their recovery by in- 
process alterations. (RERC) 

10. Physical Chemistry of Metallurgical Process Engineering 

Objective : To apply the principles of physical chemistry to analyze the 
distribution and disposition of accessory elements and compounds in metallur- 
gical operations and to employ mathematical models of metallurgical processes 
to predict process changes that would yield better neccessory element control 
and high metal recoveries. (RERC) 

11. Control and Recovery of Accessory Minerals in Lead and Zinc 

Objective : develop environmentally acceptable hydrometallurgical tech- 
niques for recovering accessory and other values from smelter and refinery 
byproducts. (RORC) 12. 

12. Control of Radioactive Accessory Minerals in Phosphate Flotation 
Tailings *** 

Objective : To investigate techniques for the removal of radioactive- 
bearing minerals, such as heavy minerals and rare earth compounds, from phos- 
phate flotation tailings, thereby eliminating environmental hazards during 
land reclamation. (TURC) 

13. Petrographic Characterizations 

Objective : To monitor contract J0100015, "Characterization of Accessory 
Minerals in Birmingham Red Iron Ores and Eufaula Ferruginous Bauxite Deposits 
in Alabama." (TURC) 

14. Control of Toxic Elements in Leaching Processes and Waste Streams 

Objective : To minimize the environmental effects of copper leaching by 
identifying parameters that can be used to control the solubility and mobility 
of toxic elements such as arsenic and selenium and to determine the potential 
of lignochemicals and humic acids for removing toxic elements from processing 
and waste streams. (TCRC) 



24 



15. Control of Leachable Accessory Elements From Waste Ferrous Slags *** 

Objective : To develop high-temperature slag-to-slag extraction proce- 
dures to remove extractable potentially toxic elements from waste ferrous 
slags, to reduce the volume of hazardous slag that must be discarded, and to 
treat slags to lock in pollutants. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1 . Determination of the Chemical Form and the Activity Coefficient of 
As, Bi, and Se in Copper Metallurgical Slags *** 

Objective : To determine the activities of trace elements in slag and 
white metal as a function of slag composition for basic slags and as modified 
with silica and magnetite. Implications for conventional and flash smelting 
shall be evaluated. 

2. Concentration of Impurity Elements From Copper Reverberatory Slags 

Objective : To determine the form and distribution of arsenic, antimony, 
bismuth, selenium, and tellurium in copper reverberatory slags as a first step 
in evaluating techniques for controlling the distribution of these elements in 
slags and mattes. (ALRC/University of Nevada) 

3. Characterization of Accessory Minerals in Birmingham Red Iron Ores 
and Eufaula Ferruginous Bauxite Deposits in Alabama 

Objective : To identify the mineral association of accessory elements in 
Birmingham iron ores and Eufaula bauxite by petrographic examination. 
(TURC /University of Missouri) 

MINED-LAND RECLAMATION 

This subprogram's overall goal is to develop new and improved technology 
that can be used by the minerals industry for the prevention of the 
undesirable environmental effects of minerals extraction and processing. 
Research conducted addresses both short- and long-term solutions to 
environmental effects associated with reclamation of land utilized during 
minerals extraction. Specific goals of this subprogram are to — 

1. Develop and demonstrate methods for segregation, storage, and 
placement of topsoil, techniques for selective handling of toxic overburden, 
and equipment systems for contour restoration. 

2. Develop and demonstrate methods for stabilizing restored topsoil and 
overburden, spoil piles, tailings ponds and embankments, and highwalls. 

3. Develop and demonstrate techniques for subsidence prediction, 
control, and prevention, and subsidence damage abatement. 



25 



4. Determine raining and reclamation practices that offer optimum 
post-mining surface utilization. 

Land Restoration 

The Land Restoration element addresses environmental problems that occur 
during and immediately after the extraction of the mineral commodity as well 
as the stabilization of minerals-processing waste. The goal is to develop 
mining, reclamation, and minerals-processing techniques that, when adopted, 
will result in mineral land being used for the highest potential beneficial 
land use after extraction is completed. Work is categorized into the follow- 
ing areas: Land use, reclamation methods, recontouring methods, reclamation 
systems development, soils relationships, and restoration equipment. Some of 
the element objectives are to — 

1. Develop analytical techniques for conducting alternative postraining 
land use evaluations. 

2. Develop and demonstrate techniques and equipment to test and evalu- 
ate the effectiveness of reclamation methods. 

3. Develop and demonstrate techniques that support mining and reclama- 
tion environmental regulations. 

In-House Projects 

1. Identification of Revegetation Problems in Arid and Semiarid Surface 
Metal and Nonmetal Mining Regions 

Objective : To identify problems in revegetating arid and semiarid dis- 
turbed areas and recognize plant communities that are productive and adaptable 
to a disturbed mine condition. Problems in metal and nonmetal rained areas 
will be surveyed and categorized for both surface and underground mines. 
(DRC ) 

2. Reclamation of Tailings in Subalpine Environments *** 

Objective : To conduct a literature review to document the success of 
revegetating and/or stabilizing tailings in subalpine environments. Field 
sampling measurements will be taken on reclaimed sites at a uranium mine to 
determine which revegetation procedures were successful. (DRC) 

3. Surface Mine Reclamation Technology 

Objective : To provide planning and assistance on program development in 
Land Restoration when work requires preparing RFP's and evaluating USP's, 
reviewing manuscripts, negotiating contracts, monitoring contract research, 
and transferring technology to industry. (DRC) 



26 



4. Research Management and Planning Systems (RMAPS) 

Objective : To provide the Office of the Deputy Director for Minerals 
Research, and/or on request any other groups in cooperation with Minerals 
Research, information, assistance, and/or reports containing useful and timely 
data to assist them in their work. (DRC) 

5. Determination of the Long-Term Effects of Reclamation of Surface Mine 
Spoils and Refuse Areas Using Powerplant Fly Ash *** 

Objective : To sample previously established plots, perform chemical 
analysis of soils, water, and plant tissue, and correlate the long-term con- 
ditions to those existing at time of treatment and immediately following 
treatment. The. project constitutes a 10-year evaluation of the fly ash spoil 
reclamation procedures developed by the Bureau. (PRC) 

6. Surface Restoration of Minerals-Processing Wastes 

Objective : To devise, improve, and field-test methods for stabilizing 
mining and minerals processing wastes and evaluate their effectiveness in min- 
imizing air and water pollution or other adverse environmental impacts. Work, 
for FY 81 includes (1) continue cooperative contract research with the U.S. 
Department of Agriculture Crop Research Center, Logan, Utah, to select and 
test plant materials for rained-land reclamation, (2) continue irrigation and 
monitoring of 50-acre Bauer, Utah, field test to obtain quantitative data on 
the effect of reclamation on environmental pollution, (3) continue research on 
steep slope reclamation methods and initiate design work through a contract 
for specialized equipment needed to treat and plant such areas, (4) continue 
research to enhance the ability of selected plants to fix nitrogen through 
amendments or bacterial inoculation, (5) continue cooperative environmental 
research on specific residues generated by pilot operations using Bureau of 
Mines devised metallurgical processing methods, and (6) continue evaluation of 
past reclamation field test. (SLRC) 

7. Effects of Topsoil Stockpiling and Water Collection Systems on Mined Land 
Reclamation in Arid Climates 

Objective : To determine the effects of stockpiling of topsoils on soil 
fertility and compare small-scale and overall fertility. Field tests will be 
established using water collecting techniques (gouges, dishes, and/or 
imprints) to retain moisture for the vegetation of tailings. In addition core 
samples will be taken from two or more coal surface mine topsoil stockpiles 
of various ages and analyzed for soil fertility parameters. (SLRC) 

8. Land Restoration Technical Development *** 

Objective : To prepare statements of work and RFP's, review RFP ' s and 
USP's, evaluate proposals, monitor contracts, and provide support as needed 
for Land Restoration program. (SLRC) 



27 



9. Identification of Reclamation Problems in Metal and Nonmetal Mines in 
Alaska 



Objective: To identify reclamation problems in metal and nonmetal mines 
in Alaska to serve as a base for pinpointing research needs. Results to date 
indicate that Alaskan lands will revegetate after raining. However, a deter- 
rent to rapid revegetation is the weather. (SLRC) 

10. Reclamation Equipment Application and Technology 

Objective : To investigate, analyze, and monitor current reclamation 
technology and ongoing research in the surface raining industry. To identify 
existing problems and anticipate future developments, and formulate a coordi- 
nated program of research and development to improve rained-land reclamation. 
Emphasis will be placed on determining the feasibility of using draglines to 
recontour rained areas, assessing equipment instrumentation to control and 
optimize recontouring and reshaping of mined lands, determining the feasibil- 
ity of using rubber-tired equipment to recontour rained areas, and identifying 
critical elements and subelements involved in reclamation and mining opera- 
tions and the economic considerations involved in each area. (SPRC) 

11. Computer-Supported Analysis of Surface Reclamation Systems 

Objective : To use simulated models to evaluate new mine systems and rec- 
lamation equipment concepts proposed, developed, and demonstrated under the 
Minerals Environmental Technology program to determine the potential for 
improved reclamation technology of surface raining operations. To evaluate new 
and improved reclamation equipment and mining and/or environmetal systems for 
feasibility and cost effectiveness. Consideration will be given to updating 
surface raining simulation models by developing or acquiring new routines to 
simulate specialized equipment and to improving the efficiency and capability 
of current models. (SPRC) 

12. Specialized Reclamation Equipment 

Objective : To provide support for the Minerals Environmental Technology 
program in research and planning, contract research program development, pre 
paration of requests for proposals, evaluation of proposals, negotiating con- 
tracts, monitoring contract research, and disseminating information to inter- 
ested parties. This program will provide personnel for proper evaluation and 
monitoring of authorized environmental research projects to insure adequat 
progress. (SPRC) 

13. Electrokinetic Techniques for Sediment Pond Abandonment 

Objective : To demonstrate through laboratory and field tests the feasi- 
bility of using direct current to clarify surface water and consolidate coal 
waste to facilitate reclamation of abandoned sediment ponds. (SPRC) 



28 



14. Iron Range Mined-Land Reclamation 

Objective : To continue to gather information concerning the state of the 
art of iron-mined-land reclamation in cold climates and to establish research 
priorities for mined-land reclamation and postmining land use. Specific 
emphasis will be given to the effectiveness of natural versus planted vegeta- 
tion growth on mined land, iron mining techniques to facilitate reclamation, 
postmining land use, and abandoned open pit reclamation. (TCRC) 

15. Reprocessing Uranium Tailings To Facilitate Reclamation *** 

Objective : To provide continued liaison and coordination between the 
Bureau of Mines research on reprocessing uranium tailings to facilitate recla- 
mation and related projects at other agencies and to acquire relevant 
literature. (TCRC) 

16. Weathering and Land Reclamation *** 

Objective : To perform geochemical weathering studies on various soils 
and also on oxidized, roasted, and natural magnetite waste products to deter- 
mine the environmental problems in land reclamation. (TCRC) 

17. Impact of Mining on Soils 

Objective : To assess the nature and extent of changes in soils disturbed 
by mining, and to make preliminary soils evaluations for developing strategies 
to minimize the adverse effects of mining. (TCRC) 

18. Surface Mine Reclamation Technology 

Objective : To provide planning and assistance on program development in 
Land Restoration when work requires preparing RFP's, evaluating RFP's and 
USP's, negotiating contracts, monitoring contract research, and transferring 
technology to industry. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1 . Land Use Planning Study for the Crow Indian Tribe in Southeastern Montana 

Objective : To develop a prototype evaluation system for siting coal sur- 
face mines and to demonstrate this system on the coal reserve area of the Crow 
Indian Reservation in southeastern Montana. Mining, environmental, and land 
use factors are quantified in the system. (DRC/Harvard University) 

2. A Systems Approach to Reclamation of Strip Mined Areas in North Dakota 

Objective : To obtain and synthesize comprehensive information on the 
qualitative and quantitative aspects of a number of ecological variables oper- 
ating in the process of revegetation and reclamation of surface-mined coal 
areas to acceptable biological productivity. (DRC/University of North Dakota) 



29 



3. Comprehensive Planning To Optimize Postminlng Land Use Utilizing Water 
Harvesting 

Objective : To demonstrate use of the water harvesting concept in a serai- 
arid region as a means of obtaining an economic return to offset the cost of 
reclamation. This project includes the evaluation of a computer modeling 
effort in a previous study in order to maximize surface water runoff for a 
given site. The runoff water is captured in ponds and recycled through an 
irrigation system to create an agricultural final land use for part of the 
site. (DRC/University of Arizona) 

4. Operator's Guide for Reclamation and Pollution Control on Small Sand and 
Gravel Mines 

Objective : To develop a handbook for small sand and gravel operations 
that should help the operators plan for reclamation by incorporating a number 
of related factors including community relations, reclamation practices, land 
use considerations, and pollution control requirements. (DRC/Hittman Associ- 
ates, Inc.) Note: Interstate Mining Compact Commission serves as technical 
advisor under a separate Bureau contract. 

5. Enhancing Short- and Long-Range Availability of Nitrogen and Phosphorus 
on Topsoil-Def icient Mine Spoil 

Objective : To conduct a series of experiments and technology transfer 
activities designed to improve short- and long-range availability of nitrogen 
and phosphorus in topsoil-def icient spoils, and to deliver research findings 
to mine operators, regulatory officers, extension coworkers, and other 
interested individuals through demonstration plots and written materials. 
This project will be targeted to steep slope spoils in Appalachia where top- 
soil is in short supply. (PRC/Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State 
University) 

6. Establishment of Associative Nitrogen Fixing Grasses on Metal Mine 
Tailings 

Objective : To select and test nitrogen-fixing grasses capable of growth 
on metal mine tailings in semiarid regions. (SLRC/Utah University) 

7. Breeding of Improved Grasses for Mined-Land Reclamation 

Objective : To make available to the Bureau of Mines the improved plant 
stock being developed by selective breeding for metal tolerance in a green- 
house and on a coal spoil by the Agricultural Research Crops Research Labora- 
tory located in Logan, Utah. (SLRC/United States Department of Agriculture) 

8. Toxic Overburden Material In Situ Detection System 

Objective : To develop data and specifications for methods of locating 
surface and subsurface zones of deposits of toxic and/or unfavorable material 
in mining overburden. To review Federal and State regulations defining toxic 



30 

and/or unfavorable materials and segregation requirements. (SPRC/GAI Consult- 
ants, Inc. ) 

9. Remining as a Potential Tool To Accomplish Reclamation of Abandoned 
Tailings Ponds *** 

Objective : To develop comprehensive mining and reclamation plans and 
methodology for remining mine and mill tailings pond waste materials and 
establish material content levels that would make recovery operations economi- 
cally feasible. These plans shall be developed for actual sites. 

10. Production, Engineering, Development, and Demonstration of the Draft 
Power Sensor 

Objective : To develop and test an improved version of a draft power sen- 
sor to be attached to the dozers used in regrading spoil after raining. Previ- 
ous research developed and tested a prototype sensor. The results indicated 
potential regrading cost savings and productivity increases. This project 
seeks to develop a rugged production version and expand the field testing. 
(SPRC/Southwest Research Institute) 

11. D evelopment of Guidelines for Mine Planning and Reclamation 

Objective : To investigate and develop guidelines for mine planning and 
reclamation in order to identify and illustrate the relationship between the 
planning of mining activities and the relationship of the land. Consideration 
shall be given to the methods and approaches to be used in reclamation plan- 
ning addressed in the early phase of mining, key features of mine planning 
that affect reclamation and the environment, identification of relative costs 
of reclamation practices, reclamation components that require treatment during 
the early stages of reclamation planning, and Federal and State regulatory 
requirements and how mined land reclamation is affected. These data shall be 
combined with existing reclamation data into a handbook. (SPRC/lnterraountain 
Resources, Ltd. ) 

12. Specialized Land Reclamation Tools and the Transfer of New and Developing 
Technology to Active Mines 

Objective : To introduce and successfully transfer to the surface coal 
mining industry the technology of specialized reclamation tools developed by 
the Bureau of Mines and the Pittsburgh and Midway Coal Mining Co. Initially, 
a 4-month demonstration of selected reclamation techniques was conducted. 
Four recontouring blades were successfully applied as a reclamation system 
designed to recontour area mine spoils. A second demonstration is being con- 
sidered, and special dragline systems for recontouring will be field-tested. 
(SPRC/Russell and Sons Construction Co., Inc.) 



31 



13. Improved Interburden Handling Techniques at Multiseam Dragline Operations 
To Enhance Reclamation Practices 

Objective: To evaluate and analyze the effects of different interburden 
handling techniques on ground water and the potential for revegetation, in 
accordance with requirements of the Surface Mining Control and Reclamation 
Act. A literature review shall be conducted on interburden handling concepts 
developed under previous Bureau of Mines research. Field studies at mine 
sites shall be performed with emphasis on the type of interburden handling 
used, the type of equipment used, and the problems or success with reclamation 
of surface vegetation and ground water resources directly related to inter- 
burden materials. The results of the study shall be used to identify problem 
areas and in preparing a list of recommendations for future research for 
improving interburden handling techniques at multiseam to recontour area mine 
spoils. A second demonstration is being considered, and special dragline 
operations to enhance reclamation practices. (SPRC/Mathematica, Inc.) 

14. Topsoil Rock Removal 

Objective : To develop and evaluate the engineering, economic, and legis- 
lative criteria that a topsoil rock removal system and/or equipment would be 
required to meet. Work shall include reviewing of all Federal and State 
reclamation regulations to determine what requirements must be met by mine 
operators concerning rock removal from the topsoil cover; determining the 
costs associated with topsoil rock removal; and identifying the decision cri- 
teria used by mining companies in their selection of surface topsoil rock 
removal equipment. Information from this study will be used to determine the 
feasibility of developing new or improving existing rock removal equipment for 
reclamation. (SPRC/Skelly and Loy) 

15. Reclamation To Enhance Fish and Wildlife Habitat 

Objective : To develop a coal mine operator's handbook to enhance fish 
and wildlife habitat in the Northern Great Plains Coal Province. The handbook 
will help operators select the proper plant species and/or water elements 
needed if they choose the wildlife option offered by Office of Surface Mining 
(OSM) regulations. (SPRC/Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Biological 
Services) 

16. Selective Placement of Toxic Overburden Material 

Objective : To develop and demonstrate selective segregation concepts 
applicable to areas high in soluble salts and metallic mineral concentrations 
whereby toxic materials are identified, selectively handled, and segregated to 
minimize or eliminate contamination of the ground water system and the dis- 
turbed aquifer is reestablished through selective overburden placement. 
Project research work shall include baseline data collection and field demon- 
strations and evaluations. (SPRC/Montana State University) 



32 



17. Design and Development of Area Terrace Pit Mining Systems 

Objective : To develop and evaluate conceptual terrace pit mining systems 
suitable for the recovery of single and multiple coal seams encountered in the 
Interior and Western Coal Provinces. Conceptual terrace pit systems shall be 
subjected to detailed engineering and economic feasibility and environmental 
benefit analyses, and detailed designs for the most promising systems shall be 
developed. Pertinent literature shall be reviewed to obtain and document 
engineering practices associated with terrace pit mining operations. Field 
surveys at terrace pit mining operations shall be conducted to document and 
evaluate current mining, reclamation, and equipment practices and to identify 
inherent operational problems associated with terrace pit raining 
operations. (SPRC/Daraes and Moore) 

18. Field Evaluation of Recontouring Systems *** 

Objective : To develop guidelines for evaluating and selecting equipment 
used in reclaiming surface-mined land by studying a series of equipment under 
field conditions to determine their production and cost rates as well as oper- 
ator acceptance in reclamation work. 

19. Optimizing the Geometry of Recontoured Mined Land *** 

Objective : To determine trade-offs in regrading mine spoil with respect 
to factors of slope length, slope angle, and aspect; the relationship of these 
factors to erosion, sedimentation, surface runoff, wind, and plant growth; and 
the optimum configuration for water conservation and vegetative establishment. 

20. Modular Irrigation Equipment for Reclaimed Strip Mined Lands 

Objective : To develop preliminary designs for a modular irrigation sys- 
tem(s) for revegetation of western surf ace - coal-mined-land. Each irrigation 
system shall be evaluated according to its technical and economic feasibility, 
A western mined~land characteristic literature search shall be conducted on 
soil characteristics, topography, climate and native species or crops to be 
grown. An investigation shall be conducted to evalute the potential advantages 
and disadvantages of various irrigation systems. Data from the study shall be 
used to develop preliminary irrigation system designs. (SPRC/Sherraan and 
Sullivan) 

21. Reclamation Planning for Enhanced Final Land Use in Sand and Gravel 
Operations *** 

Objective : To conduct a detailed feasibility study comparing the com- 
pany's existing reclamation plan with an artist's conceptual design for an 
active sand and gravel operation at Issaquah, Wash. The artist's design model 
was prepared under the Bureau's "Earthworks: Land Reclamation Sculpture" 
project. 



33 



22. Reclamation Planning for an Abandoned Western Surface Mined Coal Land *** 

Objective : To plan, design and develop a reclamation plan and model 
using an artist's concept for an abandoned coal mine site near Hanna, Wyo. 
Implementation and construction of the earthwork will be accomplished through 
grants to Hanna from the Rural Abandoned Mines Program and National Endowment 
for the Arts. 

23. Evaluation of an In Situ Neutron Activation Borehole Probe in Reclamation 
Studies 

Objective : To test the applicability of in situ characterization of mine 
overburden by means of neutron activation techniques, and determine the mini- 
mum detectable limits for reclamation elements. The borehole probe shall be 
utilized to acquire prompt gamma and delayed gamma data at an agreed-to loca- 
tion. The data shall be analyzed, and a report shall be generated stating the 
minimum detectability of the elements of interest. Supportive technical rec- 
ommendations shall then be made as to the applicability of the in situ bore- 
hole probe technique for over-burden characterization. (SPRC/Princeton Gamma- 
Tech., Inc.) 

24. Reclamation of Tailings Basins Resulting From Copper-Nickel Milling 
Operations 

Objective : To construct a test plot with tailings from the Minnamax 
copper-nickel pilot plant located near Babbitt, Minn. The plot shall be sub- 
divided, treated with various amendments, and planted with various species. 
Growth response shall be evaluated, as well as resistance to wind and water 
erosion, ground water pollution, and rates of toxic metal concentrations in 
plant tissues. (TCRC/Barr Engineering Co. ) 

25. Impact of Surface Mining on Soil Compaction in the Midwestern 
United States 

Objective : To measure the amount of change (premining to reclaimed) in 
bulk density (soil compaction), using four study sites representing different 
equipment systems currently being utilized on prime farmland. OSM regulations 
for soil compaction on prime farmlands have been suspended, and therefore 
results from this Bureau study might be useful for developing background data 
for a workable compaction regulation. (TCRC/Hittman Associates, Inc.) 

26. Tug Valley Flood Study 

Objective : To assess the relative effect of land use on the flooding 
problem of the Big Sandy River Basin in West Virginia, Kentucky, and Virginia 
with emphasis on the Tug Fork. To identify the magnitude and timing of peak 
flow hydrograph changes for a range of soil covers typically resulting from 
various land uses present in the Basin and to relate these to downstream flood 
inundations. Changes in runoff hydrographs are to be by land use and/or cover 
types. A secondary objective is to collect selected water quality data at 
certain mined areas. (WO/U.S. Geological Survey) 



34 



27. Methods for Reduction of Highwalls To Approximate Original Contour 

Objective: To determine optimum equipment utilization procedures and 
their relative costs for eliminating the highwall and filling the final pit to 
approximate original contour at the conclusion of mining. Information from 
the study will he used to make recommendations on which new or present high- 
wall reduction techniques seem most promising, based on existing and antici- 
pated raining, environmental, and health and safety regulations for various 
ranges of geologic, topographic, and raining parameters. (DRC/Skelly and Loy) 

28. Utilization of Nickel-Refining Byproducts on Agricultural Lands 

Objective : To make plant growth and elemental uptake studies for spent 
laterite and ammonium phosphate byproducts additions to soil both in green- 
houses and in field situations. Nutrient requirements and vegetative yields 
shall be determined for various application rates. (SLRC/Oregon State 
Univeristy) 

29. Development of Improved Topsoil-Handling Techniques 

Objective : To develop new techniques and equipment combinations that 
more effectively use topsoil for reclamation in accordance with State and Fed- 
eral regulations. (SPRC/Skelly and Loy) 

30. Development of Methods for Reclaiming Abandoned Tailings Ponds and Dams 

Objective : To determine the state of the art and the problems involved 
in the removal of tailings ponds and dams in carrying out reclamation of aban- 
doned mine sites, and to develop methods for reclaiming abandoned tailings 
ponds and dams. (SPRC/Harding-Lawson Associates) 

31. Development of a Load-Haul-Dump Tree Clump Transplanter Attachment 

Objective : To develop and fabricate an attachment for a front-end loader 
of 7 to 21 cubic yards capacity that will transplant clumps of trees for 
surface mine reclamation. The load-haul-dump system shall be field-tested and 
evaluated in an operating surface mine with an ongoing reclamation program. 
(SPRC/Colorado State University) 

32. Analysis and Development of Selective Overburden Handling Mining Systems 

Objective : To design and develop innovative systems using existing 
equipment for selectively excavating and placing the overburden in the optimum 
sequence to eliminate environmental problems and provide for postmining use as 
farmland. To develop functional specifications and concepts for new equipment 
capable of selectively excavating and depositing overburden and topsoil 
materials. (SPRC/Marston and Marston, Inc.) 



35 



33. Development of Systems for Leveling and Contouring Abandoned Spoil Banks 

Objective : To investigate and evaluate the economic and engineering 
feasibility of innovative systems for leveling and recontouring abandoned 
spoil banks. To determine the applicability of present reclamation systems 
and large material-handling equipment for recontouring applications in aban- 
doned coal lands. To develop innovative machine and/or system concepts to 
meet deficiencies related to recontouring abandoned coal lands. (SPRC/Golder 
Associates, Inc.) 

34. Computer Simulation Model for Surface Mine Reclamation Planning 

Objective : To extend the capabilities of the existing open pit material- 
handling simulator (OPMHS) to provide the logic necessary to simulate tech- 
niques for spoil leveling, highwall reduction, topsoil handling, and rock 
removal. The expansion of the OPMHS will provide the Bureau and the mining 
community with the capability to test research findings from the raining sys- 
tems program in order to assess the feasibility of programs and the need for 
further research. (SPRC/Penn State University) 

35. Development of Dragline Techniques for Reclaiming Spoil 

Objective : To investigate, develop, and demonstrate special dragline 
reclamation techniques for reclaiming and recontouring spoil in applicable 
situations, such as filling raodif ied-area mine final cuts, contouring head- 
of-hollow fill in mountaintop removal, relocating the large volumes of spoil 
atop the highwall when mining of dipping seams is completed, and moving spoil 
uphill to recontour conventional contour raining operations. (SPRC/ Mathtech, 
Inc.) 

36. Development of Improved Topsoil Handling Techniques 

Objective : To develop new techniques and equipment combinations that 
optimize and more effectively use the available topsoil so as to enable mining 
operations to meet State and Federal regulations. (SPRC/Skelly and Loy) 

37. Soil as a Resource 

Objective : A nationwide study is being conducted to develop a study pro- 
gram on the status of domestic soils. From the program should emerge a better 
understanding of the relationships between soil and other resources, such as 
coal, the development of which had a definite impact on the soil. 
(TCRC/National Academy of Science) 

38. Technical Advice and Support in the Preparation of a Field Guide for 
Reclamation Planning and Pollution Control 

Objective : To provide technical advice and support in the preparation of 
a field guide that will provide the small operator with information on recla- 
mation and pollution control requirements and procedures. Sand and gravel is 
a high place-value commodity, and mining operations are generally located in 



36 



or near populated areas, whereby land-use and related conflicts often 
develop. (WO/Interstate Mining Compact Commission) 

Surface Stability 

This element's overall goal is to provide new and Improved technology for 
predicting and controlling environmental problems associated with the short- 
and long-term physical Integrity of land surface areas (including all struc- 
tures located thereon) Impacted by mining operations, and development of 
potential future land use applications for those areas. Specific goals of 
this element are to — 

1. Develop and test on a regional basis, empirical and analytical techniques 
and models for subsidence prediction and control In longwall and roora-and- 
plllar mining. 

2. Develop comprehensive methodologies for analyzing the reactions, and mit- 
igating the damages, of surface lands and structures to subsidence stresses. 

3. Develop and demonstrate methods for stabilizing restored topsoll and 
overburden, spoil piles and fills, tailings ponds and embankments, and 
hlghwalls. 

4. Determine mining reclamation, and mine closure practices that offer opti- 
mum postmlnlng utilization and minimal environmental impact. 

In-House Projects 

1 . Characterization of Subsidence Over Longwall Panels 

Objective : To acquire and analyze subsidence data from western sites 
having representative mining methods and mine layouts, differences in topog- 
raphy, and a range of geologic characteristics. Monitoring networks will be 
established over active panels for correlation with existing data and availa- 
ble prediction techniques. (DRC) 

2. Analysis of Subsidence Data From Solution Mining 

Objective : To install and monitor a surface subsidence network over an 
active solution mine, and correlate these data with mining operations and geo- 
logic features in order to determine the feasibility of collapse prediction 
and control techniques. (DRC) 

3. Analysis of Deformation and Stability of Surface Coal Mine Spoil 

Objective : To investigate and describe the response to load of surface 
coal mine spoil materials, so that accurate predictions can be made of struc- 
tural support characteristics, settlement, and mass stability for various min- 
ing and postminlng configurations and geologic conditions. (DRC) 



37 



4. Information Center for Subsidence Data Technology *** 

Objective : To establish a technical public information center that will 
provide a central source of available subsidence data and manuscripts, both 
published and unpublished, foreign and domestic, for use of industry, govern- 
ment, and academia in order to develop a national expertise in subsidence pre- 
diction and analysis for domestic mining conditions. (DRC) 

5. Stress Research Applied to Mine Design and Subsidence Control 

Objective : To investigate with field instrumentation the relationships 
between rock stress and mine design in order to determine subsidence potential 
and control measures for the emerging oil shale industry. The design process 
will be evaluated by full-scale field testing and correlated with predicted 
results. (DRC) 

6. Laboratory Determination of Static Design Parameters of Rock 

Objective : To determine under simulated field conditions the mechanical 
properties of fractured and unfractured rock, and the behavior of the medium 
under varying stress systems. The prototype rock modeling data will be used 
by engineers to evaluate the mine designs generated in the above oil shale 
project. (DRC) 

7. Subsidence Technology Assessment 

Objective : To develop research proposals that will produce economic and 
environmentally acceptable technology for solving or decreasing problems asso- 
ciated with subsidence and closure of underground mines. (DRC) 



8. Development of Subsidence Prediction Techniques for Room-and-Pillar 
Mining 

Objective : To collect available field data, install and monitor active 
surface panel networks, and develop empirical techniques for the prediction of 
ground movements over coal room and pillar extraction. These will be pre- 
sented in a manual for use by both permit applicants and regulatory authori- 
ties relative to Public Law 95-87. (PRC) 

9. Develop Procedures To Evaluate and Rank Candidate Sites for Subsidence 
Control Activity *** 

Objective : To develop quantitative procedures to allow candidate sites 
for subsidence control to be comparatively evaluated, considering relative 
time of occurrence and size of area affected, severity and resulting damage, 
cost and potential effectiveness of control activity, and potential for 
improvements in control technology resulting from activity. (PRC) 



38 



10. Monitoring of Tristate Study 

Objective : To evaluate existing hazards and known methods for public 
protection, including identification of potential areas for future damages 
resulting from lead-zinc mining, through technical administration and quality 
assurance of performance on contracts with State geologic surveys of Kansas, 
Oklahoma and Missouri. The Bureau will collate, edit, and synthesize the 
States' data for published final report. (RORC) 

11. Instrumentation for Surveying Cavities Created by Borehole Mining 

Objective : To develop and test a second-generation instrument package 
for surveying dimensions of cavities through 6-inch boreholes, incorporating 
both closed circuit television and still cameras, to be used for subsidence 
control activities. (TCRC) 

12. Effects of Geologic Variation on Coal Mine Subsidence 

Objective : To determine lithologic, spatial, and constitutive variables 
with attendant discontinuities which influence the development of the sub- 
sidence profile for use in phenoraenological prediction techniques. (TCRC) 

13. Subsidence Effects on Structures From Ground Surface Conditions 

Objective : To collect and analyse data on subsidence damage to struc- 
tures and subsidence profile information to determine the development of ten- 
sion and compression zones, and develop a damage classification system that 
relates to cost repair normalized to assessed value. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1. Stability Analysis of Valley Fill Construction *** 

Objective : To identify relations between materials, design, construc- 
tion, and performance of coal mine spoil fills, and determine the magnitude of 
expected problems related to stability, settlements, and seepage for various 
fills. Assessments shall be made of the available analytical methods for 
dealing with these problems, and parameters of model development, shall be 
recommended for spoil fill behavior prediction. 

2. Environmental Effects of Slaking of Surface Mine Spoils 

Objective : To determine effects on surface stability and erosion caused 
by deterioration of overburden materials exposed to weathering processes and 
water. A review of weathering research and testing precedes a field examina- 
tion of four sites in selected mining districts. (DRC/D 'Appolonia) 

3. Study of the Coal Mine Stability Problems in the Eastern Coal Province 

Objective : To quantitatively assess the slope instability problems asso- 
ciated with surface coal raining and recommend improved spoil techniques for 



39 



the variable materials and geologic and physiographic conditions of the 
region. (PRC/Law Engineering Testing Co.) 

4. Development of a Conceptual Model for Room-and-Pillar Subsidence 

Objective : To develop and validate a preliminary phenomenological pre- 
dictive model, in equation form, that defines the various georaechanical, geo- 
logical, and physiological parameters and their relationships, that affect the 
short-, intermediate-, and long-terra stability of room-and-pillar coal raining 
operations and attendant subsurface and surface subsidence activity. (PRC/MRM 
Co.) 

5. Surface Mine Closure Practices for Metal and Nonmetal Operations *** 

Objective : To identify worldwide mine closure practice and effectiveness 
including methods of mining based upon the location and economics of open pit 
metal and nonmetal mines, identify gaps in closure technology, and determine 
feasible ideas for research, both short and long terra, to return open pit 
mines to alternative productive use at the end of the raining cycle. 

6. Influence of Rock Mass Discontinuities on Coal Mine Subsidence 

Objective : To determine and define the effects of rock mass discontinui- 
ties, both regional and site-specific, on coal mine longwall subsidence. 
Using two-dimensional finite element analysis supported by comprehensive sur- 
face panel monitoring data and georaechanical laboratory and in-mine instrumen- 
tation data, the rock mass response to raining operations shall be modeled and 
the general applicability of the finite element technique shall be assessed as 
a subsidence prediction tool. (TCRC/Woodward-Clyde) 

7 . Survey of Ground Surface Conditions Affecting Structural Response to 
Subsidence 

Objective : To determine how differences in near-surface materials affect 
the severity of subsidence-induced damage relative to the effects of mine 
geometry, extraction method, and thickness and/or depth of the coal seam(s). 
Also to define the relationships between ground surface conditions and behav- 
ior and observed damage effects, and recommend ground treatment and/or archi- 
tectural measures for variable conditions. (TCRC/GAI Consultants) 

8. Instrumentation for Remotely Detecting the Placement of Injected Backfill 

Objective : To survey and analyze applicable methodologies and systems 
for monitoring backfill placement In blind stowing operations, and recommend 
the most feasible method for design or modification, (further) development, 
and field demonstration. (TCRC/Earthtech Research Corp.) 

9. Case Study of the Sherwood Mine Closing 

Objective : To monitor and determine the nature and extent of any physi- 
cal changes in the mine and surrounding environment during "refilling" in 



40 



order to develop a methodology for the prediction and control of similar post- 
mining subsidence related to mine closure below water table. (TCR.C /Michigan 
Tech) 

10. Technical and Economic Feasibility of Using Cemented Backfill To Prevent 
Subsidence 

Objective : To evaluate the feasibility of disposing of some or all of 
the coal-related wastes in active coal mines adjacent to powerplants by devel- 
oping a mixture of those products (preparation plant rejects, powerplant fly 
ash, sulfate scrubber sludge, etc.) that can obtain sufficient strength for 
subsidence mitigation. (TCRC/Michael Baker Jr.) 

11. Investigation of the Subsidence and Surface Collapse Features in 
Reclaimed Coal Mine Spoils 

Objective : To determine the stability of regraded surface mine spoils 
from the Fort Union Formation and examine the resulting effect on ground water 
quality in order to help establish postmining land uses for the affected 
areas. (DRC /North Dakota Geological Survey) 

12. Laboratory Experiments To Determine the Roof Behavior of Auger Mining 
With Aerostatic Support 

Objective : To design, fabricate, and test a 1:20 scale model of auger 
mining with aerostatic support in order to determine the mechanism of roof 
behavior and the relationship between the support, overburden pressure, hole 
size and spacing, and physical properties of coal and rock. (TCRC/Engineers 
International) 

13. Prediction of Ground Movement by Computer Simulation 

Objective : To develop software and hardware with interactive graphics 
display of surface subsidence contours based on empirically developed influ- 
ence functions for computing predicted subsidence profiles in longwall and 
roora-and-pillar raining; to be validated against field data. (TCRC/Penn State 
University) 

14. Demonstration of Coal Mine Haul Road Sediment Control Techniques 

Objective : To demonstrate, in actual mining operations, the most effec- 
tive of controlling the erosion that results from the construction of haul 
roads in the steeply sloping areas of Appalachia, and to collect quantitative 
data by remote instrumentation for evaluation of their effectiveness. 
(PRC/Coramonwealth of Kentucky) 

SPECIAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS 

Research performed by the Bureau of Mines in the Special Environmental 
Problems subprogram seeks to develop methods, equipment, and associated 



41 



technologies to abate environmental problems that may arise during a particu- 
lar raining or processing operation. Specific goals of this subprogram are 
to — 

1. Develop environmental control technology related to noise and ground 
vibrations. 

2. Identify future environmental problems and hazards in the minerals indus- 
try and develop techniques for their control. 

3. Establish analytical procedures and develop control technology for min- 
eral particulates derived from mining and mineral-processing operations. 

Noise and Vibration Control 

This element of the subprogram focuses on the environmental problems 
associated with airblast and ground vibrations from blasting and ambient noise 
pollution from routine equipment usage. 

In-House Projects 

1 . Application of Noise Abatement Techniques To Mine Environmental 
Noise Problems 

Objective : To determine noise abatement techniques and promote their 
application to the solution of mine environmental noise problems. This will 
constitute the core project for the environmental noise program designed to 
correlate and integrate the contract research and demonstrate the techniques 
to the mining industry. (TCRC) 

2. Control of Blast Noise and Vibration From Contour Mining of Coal 
in Appalachia 

Objective : To determine airblast, ground vibration, and structure damage 
potential in contour strip mining and to develop design criteria which will 
minimize these environmental effects. (TCRC) 

3. Analysis and Technical Review of Standards for Vibration and Noise 
from Blasting 

Objective : To analyze proposed International Standards Organization and 
American Noise Standard Institute standards and provide technical support on 
criteria and measurement methods for airblast and ground vibrations. (TCRC) 

4. Blast Design To Minimize Airblast and Ground Vibration 

Objective : To develop design criteria based on current technology to 
minimize airblast and ground vibrations and still permit cost-effective blast- 
ing at surface mines. (TCRC) 



42 



5. Fatigue and Structural Damage of Residential Structures From Repeated 
Surface Mine Blasting 

Objective : To determine criteria for fatigue and structural damage in 
residential homes due to ground vibrations from repeated blasting in surface 
coal mines, and to monitor and analyze damage to the test structure and a con- 
trol home during low-level vibrations and initial aging, settlement, and 
weather effects. (TCRC) 

6. Feasibility of the Development of a Precise Mine Blast Initiation 
System *** 

Objective : To determine the feasibility of developing a blast initiation 
system that would allow precise, predetermined detonation of each individual 
blasting cap in a multidelay blast. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1 . Human Response to Blast Noise and Ground and Structure Vibrations 

Objective : To determine the subjective response of humans to surface 
mine and quarry blasting by correlating human response with the amplitude, 
frequency, duration and damping characteristics of the air, ground, and struc- 
ture vibrations. (TCRC /Bolt, Beranek, and Newman) 

2. Technology for Noise Control in Surface Mines 

Objective : To identify the environmental noise problems associated with 
mining operations, develop techniques for monitoring such noise, and identify 
and recommend technology for abatement of noise problems. (TCRC/ORI, Inc.) 

3. Survey of Blast Damage to Water Supplies in Appalachia 

Objective : To determine possible adverse environmental effects of blast- 
ing on ground water supplies in close proximity to contour coal mining opera- 
tions in Appalachia. Ground vibrations associated with surface coal mine 
blasting are a major problem to homeowners near the mine sites. Not only can 
the vibrations cause damage to the residences, as shown in a number of Bureau 
studies, but a number of complaints exist in contour strip mining areas con- 
cerning loss of, or damage to, water wells caused by blasting. (TCRC/Philip 
R. Berger and Associates) 

4. Noise From Surface Mining Equipment, Haulage Trucks *** 

Objective : To develop cost-effective techniques for reducing the sound 
radiated from large haulage trucks without significantly reducing the effi- 
ciency of the trucks. Prototype techniques would be applied to trucks and 
demonstrate under actual operating conditions. 



43 



5. Standards on the Measurement of Human Acceptability of Blast Noise 
and Ground-Transmitted Vibration and Shock 

Objective: To administer the national and international standards com- 
mittees for which the Acoustical Society of America holds coordinating 
responsibility, specifically the technical areas of human and structural tol- 
erance and measurement for noise and vibration. (TCRC/Acoustical Society of 
America) 

Environmental Systems Analysis 

This element of the subprogram is concerned with defining the environmen- 
tal factors affecting raining of specific commodities and the development and 
demonstration of appropriate control technqiues. The results of research 
developed under present activities will provide lawmakers and industry with 
viable alternatives to the present environmentally disruptive techniques, as 
society demands greater improvements in the quality of our environment. 

In-House Projects 

1 . Mine Waste Management Technology Development 

Objective : To provide support for the Washington office in contract 
research program development, preparing requests for proposals, evaluating 
proposals, negotiating contracts, monitoring contract research, and dissemi- 
nating the information to interested parties. (BCEL. DRC, PRC, SLRC, SPRC, 
TURC, TCRC) 

2. Potential Environmental Problems Caused by Use of High-Vanadium Fuel *** 

Objective : To prepare an evaluation of some coatings that might protect 
the metal surfaces of pollution abatement equipment from ash corrosion. Coat- 
ings with the best potential appear to be A1 2 3 and Alonized stainless steels. 
(ALRC) 

3. Environmental Constraints for Quarry Operators in an Urban 
Environment *** 

Objective : To determine actual environmental problems in expanding as 
well as developing rock quarries along the Front Range in Colorado. More spe- 
cifically, the project will look at environmental problems of noise, dust, 
erosion, and sedimentation, degradation of surface and ground water, revegeta- 
tion, traffic, and aesthetics. The project will also look into reasons for 
public objections. (DRC) 

4. Minerals Research: Research Management and Planning System (RMAPS) 

Objective : To provide the Directorate, Minerals Research, and/or on 
request any other groups in cooperation with Minerals Research, information, 
assistance, and/or reports containing useful and timely data to assist them in 
their work. (DRC) 



44 



5. Systems Approach To Minimize Environmental Problems Associated With 
Major Mining Districts 

Objective : To identify and evaluate the environmental problems, con- 
straints, and causes common to major mining districts. The systems approach 
will allow the simultaneous evaluation of the interaction of a number of vari- 
ables, such as environmental impact, economics, and mining method, to be con- 
ducted as the input parameters are varied. Short- and long-term plans will be 
devised to identify, develop, test, and demonstrate methods to ameliorate 
environmental problems without disruption of the mining or processing 
sequence. (SPRC) 

6. Interaction With Industry on Research Programs of the Bureau and 
Industry-Specific Problems *** 

Objective : To correlate with industry on research areas covering site- 
specific problems. Informal meetings will be held with industry to discuss 
the Bureau's research program and industry's areas of concern so that a strat- 
egy to solve the problems can be derived, based on specific problems and the 
Bureau's expertise. (SPRC) 

7. Environmental Assessment of Ocean Mining Technology *** 

Objective : To assess and evaluate the state of the art in ocean mining 
and related fields to assist Washington Headquarters in deciding on the nature 
and extent of the Bureau's role in deep ocean mining and processing 
technology. (TCRC) 

8. Environmental Aspects of Mining in Minnesota and Wisconsin 

Objective : To identify potential environmental problems related to uran- 
ium mining in northern Minnesota, and the environmental problems associated 
with tailings and other waste disposal methods applicable to the high sulfide 
wastes anticipated for the Crandon and Ladysmith areas of Wisconsin. (TCRC) 

9. Analysis of Compliance Alternatives Related to Surface Mining Act 

Objective : To determine and inventory Federal and State laws and regula- 
tions regarding permits to mine coal. Particular attention will be paid to the 
requirements of OSM in regard to surface mining and aspects of underground 
mining such as subsidence control and return of waste to abandoned underground 
workings. The high-cost tasks that must be performed to comply with the regu- 
lations will be identified. Where possible, Critical Path Method (CPM) Dia- 
grams will be prepared with the idea of finding ways to streamline the overall 
permitting process and reduce costs but still maintain the process integrity. 
From the compilation of high-cost tasks, research to reduce the overall cost 
of compliance will be recommended. (TCRC) 



45 



10. Environmental Damage Assessment for In Situ Mining 

Objective: To develop and test acoustic instrumentation and techniques 
to assess blast damage to pillars and other structures, and to characterize 
and evaluate potential environmental hazards resulting from mining operations. 
(TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1. Environmental Monitoring of Boulder City Engineering Laboratory *** 

Objective : To monitor the Boulder City Engineering Laboratory for envir- 
onmental problem areas and test containment pond liner materials. 

2. Preparation of an EIS for the Bureau of Mines Oil Shale Research Tract 

Objective : To prepare an environmental import statement (EIS) for the 
Bureau Oil Shale Environmental Research Facility according to the National 
Environmental Policy Act process. Draft EIS to be completed by January 1981. 
(DRC/VTN, Colorado) 

3. Environmental Instrumentation in Mining — Air and Water 

Objective : To identify the full spectrum of environmental monitoring 
instrumentation to establish the monitoring options and potential capability 
in the mining industry. The 1977 Surface Mining Act and resulting regulatory 
requirements shall be used to identify specific monitoring goals. Manufactur- 
ers of monitoring instrumentation shall be requested to identify specific 
instruments, and their capabilities and limitations. A report shall be assem- 
bled listing the monitoring requirements and the instrumentation available to 
do the monitoring. The report shall include a discussion of the relative 
match between the state of the art in instrumentation and the requirements of 
the regulations. (SPRC/Hittraan Associates) 

4. Undercut and Fill System for Pitching Coal 

Objective : To assess the technical and environmental practicality and 
economic feasibility of developing an undercut-and-f ill mining system for 
steep by pitching by (50 dip or more) coal seams. The undercut raining system 
will consider several research developments. These include pressure filling 
with a buried pipe discharge under sufficient line pressure to maintain flow 
by "hydraulic lift," the utilization of cement foamers to create a cellular 
sand-ceraent mortar with better structural properties and reduced slurry vis- 
cosity, and the installation of preformed wire mesh panels to increase 
strength of roof panels. (SPRC/Foster-Miller) 

5. Oil Shale Creep Testing at Elevated Temperatures 

Objective : To develop a test program and conduct laboratory tests to 
determine the creep characteristic of oil shale at elevated temperatures and 
to incorporate the results with data and information developed under 



46 



separate contract to provide improved pillar design and subsidence prediction 
for commercial in situ retorting of oil shale. (TCRC/Terra Tek, Inc.) 

6. Effect of In Situ Retorting on Oil Shale Pillars 

Objective : To develop a test program for determining properties of oil 
shale that are important to in situ retorting of an industrial-sized operation 
(50,000 barrels per day, minimum). The results will provide information con- 
cerning the effects of large amounts of heat generated during the retorting 
process on strength of pillars (extent of weakening of support pillars, rubble 
as pillar support to prevent subsidence), extent of surface and subsurface 
damage or disruption, and Kerogen recovery from pillars. (TCRC/Colorado 
School of Mines) 

7. Site Specific Investigation of Environmental Problems Associated With 
Surface Mining of Heavy Oil and Tar Sands 

Objectives : To design a surface raining, oil separation, and waste dis- 
posal system, and quantify the environmental problems that must be over-come 
for a specific oil and/or tar sand deposit. A. resource survey, site and min- 
ing method selection, and environmental analysis of selected concepts are 
being performed. (TCRC/Golder Associates) 

8. Environmental-Technological Assessment for Peat Development on Block 
Island, R.I. 

Objective : To conduct an environmental-technological assessment of using 
peat as a potential source of energy on Block Island, R.I., small island com- 
munity which because of its separation from the mainland has the highest elec- 
trical energy costs in the United States. The environmental analysis shall 
include the quantification and qualification of the island's ecology. (Base- 
line data on air, water, land, flora, fauna, will be gathered and evaluated.) 
Using this information as a baseline control, each technological option for 
developing the island peat resources shall be evaluated for its potential 
impacts on the island environment. One of the more crucial areas of environ- 
mental investigation shall be the socioeconomic aspects of peat development on 
the island, and what the impacts might be for each of the technological 
options of development evaluated. (TCRC/ Planning Systems International) 

9. Testing and Evaluating the Characteristics of Northern Peat Reclamation 

Objective : To determine the proper mix ratio of subsoil, peat, and sup- 
plemental nutriment requirements to reclaim mined peat land into productive 
agricultural and/or forest land. Based on the test Information, plots have 
been established for actual in-the-field testing for the determination of 
productivity. (TCRC/University of Minnesota) 

10. Borehole Mining of Phosphate Ores 

Objective : To determine the environmental, technical, and economic feas- 
ibility of raining phosphate ore with the Bureau of Mines borehole raining 



47 



system. The environmental factors to be considered include subsidence and 
effects upon groundwater. A survey of the land surface shall be made prior to 
the start of mining operations to establish a baseline for subsequent measure- 
ments of subsidence. Pre - and post-mining samples will also be taken to 
determine the groundwater quality. (TCRC/Flow Industries) 

1 1 . Environmental Program for the Bear Creek Hydraulic Borehole 
Mining Demonstration Test 

Objective : To quantify potential environmental disturbances related to 
borehole uranium mining and formulate suggested guidelines for permitting and 
monitoring a commercial borehole raining operation. (TCRC/Rocky Mountain 
Energy) 

Particulate Emissions Control 

This element of the subprogram is concerned with the development of tech- 
nology to resolve the environmental problems associated with mineral particles 
derived from mining and mineral-processing operations. 

In-House Projects 

1 . Particulate Mineralogy 

Objective : To develop new and improved methods of identification and 
measurement of mineral particulates. This will encompass measurement of 
chrysotile and fibrous amphiboles in crushed stone quarries, evaluation of 
fibrous minerals in public land areas, identification of fibrous particulates 
in mining and mineral-processing dusts, and characterization of fibrous mine- 
rals in consumer products. (AVRC) 

2. Fugitive Dust Characterization and Quantification Related to Mining 
and Mineral-Processing Operations 

Objective : To develop reliable procedures for assessing dust concentra- 
tions, to characterize dusts from mining and milling sources, and to develop 
and test control measures for fugitive dust from mine and milling sites. 
Fugitive dust control at raining and milling operations is a problem compli- 
cated by meteorological conditions, seasonal effects, local conditions, and 
dust characteristics. The interpretation of fugitive dust data and the demon- 
strated effectiveness of dust control measures will aid operators in complying 
with EPA and OSM standards and aid enforcement agencies by providing a statis- 
tically significant data base. (PRC) 

3. Electromagnetic Drying of Fine Coal for Minimizing Environmental 
Degradation by Airborne Dust 

Objective : To demonstrate a new, more efficient method of drying fine 
coal that will minimize airborne dust. This project will use microwave energy 
in the frequency range of 1 to 3 GHz to dry fine coal for selected sizes 
smaller than the plus- 1/4-inch fraction. (TCRC) 



48 



4. Control of Fugitive Emissions 

Objective: To provide the raining industry with improved controls for 
fugitive emissions from mining and mineral processing operations. Open-source 
fugitive emission controls will be determined, and cost and effectiveness data 
will be obtained. (TCRC) 

Contract Projects 

1 . Mineralogical and Size Distribution Studies of Amphibole Asbestos 

Objective : To provide data on the characterization of amphibole asbestos 
materials. Size and aspect ratios of airborne amphiboles will be determined; 
chemical composition, fibril structure, and optical properties will also be 
included. (AVRC /University of Maryland) 

2. Dust Control on Active Tailings Ponds *** 

Objective : To determine the state-of-the-art-technology of dust control 
on active tailings ponds. Information on procedures of application, equipment 
used, additives used, type of tailing material, and area climate shall be col- 
lected. Potential environmental problems shall be delineated and recommenda- 
tions shall be made. 

3. Environmental Problems With Chemical Dust Suppressants *** 

Objective : To determine any potential environmental or health effects 
associated with the chemical dust suppressants used by the surface raining 
industry for control of fugitive dust emissions, and to provide an estimate of 
the potential risk associated with the use of each of these chemicals so that 
they may be ranked on the basis of adverse effects. 

4. Determine Effectiveness of Dust Controls for Unpaved Mine Roads *** 

Objective : To determine the effectiveness (efficiency) of dust controls 
used on mine roads. The cost-effectiveness information will be used to update 
the dust control manual being prepared under a related contract. The control 
efficiency data will be used to calculate dust emission factors for unpaved 
roads. This information is required for permitting EIS preparation, and Best 
Available Control Technology (BACT) determinations. The results will enable 
mine operators to select and use road dust controls in compliance with Total 
Suspended Particulates (TSP) standards for air quality. The operator will 
benefit because he can select the most cost-effective method for compliance 
with BACT and Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) standards. 



*US GOVERNMENT PRINTING OFFICE 1981-703-002/16 int.-bu. of mines, pgh.,p a. 25264 



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